2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1958 MG MGA
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 MG MGA would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1958 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1958 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 855 kg more than 1958 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1958 MG MGA | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | MG |
| Model | SL | MGA |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 16 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2390 mm |
