1977 AMC Matador vs. 2002 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2002 Opel Meriva is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 AMC Matador would be higher. At 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 AMC Matador (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2002 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 468 kg more than 2002 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 AMC Matador 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 1977 AMC Matador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1977 AMC Matador (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Meriva. (241 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Meriva. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 2002 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | AMC | Opel |
| Model | Matador | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 52 L |
