1974 Mazda RX-4 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 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-4 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 320 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-4 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 Mazda RX-4. 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 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda RX-4 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-4 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2400 mm |
