1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1959 MG MGA
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 MG MGA (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 MG MGA weights approximately 18 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323, 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, 1959 MG MGA (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1959 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1959 MG MGA | |
| Make | Mazda | MG |
| Model | 323 | MGA |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2390 mm |
