1981 Ford Escort vs. 1955 MG MGA
To start off, 1981 Ford Escort is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 MG MGA (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Escort weights approximately 54 kg more than 1955 MG MGA.
Because 1955 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 1955 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Escort, 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, 1955 MG MGA (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1955 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1955 MG MGA | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Escort | MGA |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2390 mm |
