1975 BMW 316 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1975 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 310 kg more than 1975 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 BMW 316 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 1975 BMW 316. 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 316 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 316 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 53 L |
