1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2005 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2005 Opel Meriva is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Meriva weights approximately 409 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Meriva (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2005 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 124 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |
