1971 Opel Rekord vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1971 Opel Rekord. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 280 kg more than 1971 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. 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 (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Opel Rekord | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Rekord | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2740 mm |
