1998 Lotus Elise vs. 1959 MG MGA
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (106 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 MG MGA weights approximately 186 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lotus Elise (193 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Lotus Elise | 1959 MG MGA | |
Make | Lotus | MG |
Model | Elise | MGA |
Year Released | 1998 | 1959 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 193 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1460 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2390 mm |