1971 Fiat 124 vs. 2001 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2001 Opel Meriva is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Meriva weights approximately 481 kg more than 1971 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Fiat 124 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 1971 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Meriva (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 124 | 2001 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 124 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 53 L |
