1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1961 MG MGA
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 37 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (226 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1961 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1961 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1961 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (276 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 MG MGA. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 MG MGA. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1961 MG MGA has manual transmission. 1961 MG MGA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1961 MG MGA | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | MG |
| Model | 166 | MGA |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2390 mm |
