2003 MG ZR vs. 1959 MG MGA
To start off, 2003 MG ZR is newer by 44 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 MG ZR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MG ZR (158 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG ZR should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG ZR weights approximately 220 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.
Because 1959 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 1959 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 MG ZR, 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, 2003 MG ZR (174 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 MG ZR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 MG ZR | 1959 MG MGA | |
| Make | MG | MG |
| Model | ZR | MGA |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 16 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
