1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2007 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2007 Opel Meriva is newer by 35 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Meriva (104 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Meriva weights approximately 465 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, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 124 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 53 L |
