2002 Mazda 323 vs. 1961 MG MGA
To start off, 2002 Mazda 323 is newer by 41 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 MG MGA (106 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 323 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1961 MG MGA.
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, 2002 Mazda 323, 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, 2002 Mazda 323 (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 323 | 1961 MG MGA | |
| Make | Mazda | MG |
| Model | 323 | MGA |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2390 mm |
