1979 Volvo 260 vs. 2011 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2011 Opel Meriva is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2011 Opel Meriva. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Meriva.
Because 1979 Volvo 260 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Meriva. (175 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volvo 260 | 2011 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 260 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
