1956 Austin Princess vs. 2012 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2012 Opel Meriva is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Austin Princess. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Austin Princess would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Meriva (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1956 Austin Princess. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin Princess.
Because 1956 Austin Princess 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 Princess. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Meriva (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin Princess. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Austin Princess.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Austin Princess | 2012 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | Princess | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
