1973 Fiat 132 vs. 2004 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Opel Meriva is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 132. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 132 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Meriva (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 132. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 132. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Meriva weights approximately 285 kg more than 1973 Fiat 132. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 132 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 132. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Meriva (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 132. (147 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 132.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 132 | 2004 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 132 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1754 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
