1974 BMW 518 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 140 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 1974 BMW 518. 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 518 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 175 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 | 1240 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
