1986 Ford Escort vs. 1955 MG MGA
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 MG MGA (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 10 kg more than 1955 MG MGA.
Because 1955 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 1955 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1955 MG MGA (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1955 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1955 MG MGA | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Escort | MGA |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2390 mm |
