2005 Opel Astra vs. 1961 MG Midget
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 MG Midget. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 MG Midget would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1961 MG Midget. (46 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 MG Midget. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 515 kg more than 1961 MG Midget. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 MG Midget 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 1961 MG Midget. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 MG Midget. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 MG Midget.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1961 MG Midget | |
| Make | Opel | MG |
| Model | Astra | Midget |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 46 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1372 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1232 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2032 mm |
