2009 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1960 MG MGA

To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1960 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1960 MG MGA.

Because 1960 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 1960 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 MG MGA.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Volkswagen Beetle 1960 MG MGA
Make Volkswagen MG
Model Beetle MGA
Year Released 2009 1960
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1781 cc 1489 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 5 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 71 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 221 Nm 104 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 203 km/hour 157 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.7 seconds 16 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1460 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2510 mm 2390 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.6 L/100km 10.6 L/100km