1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1956 MG MGA
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 MG MGA would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1956 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1956 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 860 kg more than 1956 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1956 MG MGA | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | MG |
| Model | SL | MGA |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 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 | 1760 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2390 mm |
