1969 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2000 Opel Meriva

To start off, 2000 Opel Meriva is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 7,029 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (355 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 2000 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Meriva.

Because 1969 Ford Thunderbird 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 1969 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Meriva. (220 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1969 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Meriva. 1969 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2000 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2000 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1969 Ford Thunderbird 2000 Opel Meriva
Make Ford Opel
Model Thunderbird Meriva
Year Released 1969 2000
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 7029 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 355 HP 101 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2640 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 91 L 53 L