1971 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2011 Opel Meriva is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,248 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Meriva (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort.
Because 1971 Ford Escort 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 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Opel Meriva (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Escort | 2011 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
