1978 Opel Rekord vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,978 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (123 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 266 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1978 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (185 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Rekord | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Rekord | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1978 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
