2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1959 MG MGA
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 46 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (106 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 590 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1959 MG MGA | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | MG |
| Model | 156 | MGA |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2390 mm |
