1991 Opel Astra vs. 1961 MG Midget
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 MG Midget. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 MG Midget would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1961 MG Midget. (46 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 MG Midget. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 325 kg more than 1961 MG Midget. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 MG Midget 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 Midget. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra, 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, 1991 Opel Astra (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 MG Midget. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 MG Midget. 1991 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1961 MG Midget has manual transmission. 1961 MG Midget will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 1961 MG Midget | |
| Make | Opel | MG |
| Model | Astra | Midget |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 46 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 142 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.1 seconds | 18.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1372 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1232 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2032 mm |
