1973 Fiat 124 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (99 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 420 kg more than 1973 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 124 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 124 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
