1956 Austin A 35 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Austin A 35. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Austin A 35 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 35. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 35. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 631 kg more than 1956 Austin A 35. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Austin A 35 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 1956 Austin A 35. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva, 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, 2003 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 35. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Austin A 35.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Austin A 35 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 35 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 946 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 749 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 53 L |
