2004 MG ZR vs. 1959 MG MGA
To start off, 2004 MG ZR is newer by 45 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 MG ZR (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 MG ZR should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 MG ZR weights approximately 195 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, 2004 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, 1959 MG MGA (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 MG ZR. (123 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1959 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 MG ZR.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 MG ZR | 1959 MG MGA | |
| Make | MG | MG |
| Model | ZR | MGA |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2390 mm |
