2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1961 MG MGA
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 MG MGA would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 363 more horse power than 1961 MG MGA. (106 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1961 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1961 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 559 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 MG MGA. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1961 MG MGA has manual transmission. 1961 MG MGA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1961 MG MGA | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | MG |
| Model | SL | MGA |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2650 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2390 mm |
