1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2001 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2001 Opel Meriva is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2001 Opel Meriva. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2001 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Meriva. (166 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2001 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 53 L |
