1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1958 MG MGA
To start off, 1985 Caterham 1700 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,692 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Caterham 1700 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1958 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1958 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 MG MGA weights approximately 357 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1985 Caterham 1700 (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Caterham 1700 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1958 MG MGA | |
| Make | Caterham | MG |
| Model | 1700 | MGA |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2390 mm |
