1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1960 MG MGA
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1960 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 MG MGA (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1960 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 91 kg more than 1960 MG MGA.
Because 1960 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 1960 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, 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, 1960 MG MGA (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1960 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1960 MG MGA | |
| Make | Mazda | MG |
| Model | 121 | MGA |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2390 mm |
