1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen 2CV 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 77 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (24 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 645 kg more than 1959 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Citroen 2CV is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Meriva. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Citroen 2CV will offer significantly more control. 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (50 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | 2CV | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 850 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 53 L |
