1969 Lotus Seven vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Seven 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 9 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Seven. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 804 kg more than 1969 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Lotus Seven 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 Lotus Seven. 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) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Seven. (123 Nm). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Seven | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Seven | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 576 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |
