1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1961 MG MGA
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1961 MG MGA. (106 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1961 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 546 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 MG MGA. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1961 MG MGA | |
| Make | Chrysler | MG |
| Model | PT Cruiser | MGA |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2390 mm |
