2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1955 MG MGA
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1955 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1955 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 MG MGA weights approximately 400 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
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, 2003 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 MG MGA. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1955 MG MGA | |
| Make | Caterham | MG |
| Model | 7 | MGA |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2390 mm |
