1985 Ford Escort vs. 1961 MG MGA
To start off, 1985 Ford Escort is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 MG MGA (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort.
Because 1961 MG MGA is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Escort, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1961 MG MGA (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1961 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 1961 MG MGA | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Escort | MGA |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2390 mm |
