UK vs UK — 1962 vs 1955
| MGB Roadster Mk I | MGA Twin Cam | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 95 hp | 108 hp |
| Torque | 109 lb-ft | 102 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,798 cc | 1,588 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.2 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 104 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.0 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,028 lbs | 2,129 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,311 mm | 2,388 mm |
| Length | 3,886 mm | 3,962 mm |
| Units Produced | 513,272 | 2,111 |
| Original MSRP | $2,650 | $2,766 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $100,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 8/10 |
The 1955 MG MGA Twin Cam emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 MG MGB Roadster Mk I counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1962 MG MGB Roadster Mk I and 1955 MG MGA Twin Cam share a manufacturer in MG, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the MG brand. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1962 MG MGB Roadster Mk I producing 95 hp and the 1955 MG MGA Twin Cam delivering 108 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the MG MGB uses a Inline-4 OHV B-Series displacing 1,798 cc, while the MG MGA relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,588 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 MG MGA Twin Cam edges ahead at 9.8 seconds versus 11.2 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,111 units built, the 1955 MG MGA Twin Cam is considerably scarcer than the MG MGB's 513,272 examples.