1961 Fiat 1300 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 1300 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 1300. (71 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 420 kg more than 1961 Fiat 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 1300 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 1961 Fiat 1300. 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 (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 1300. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 1300 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 1300 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1481 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 53 L |
