2002 BMW M3 vs. 1959 MG MGA
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 43 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1959 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (149 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1959 MG MGA has manual transmission. 1959 MG MGA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1959 MG MGA | |
| Make | BMW | MG |
| Model | M3 | MGA |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2390 mm |
