1981 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 160 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
Because 1981 BMW 520 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 1981 BMW 520. 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, 1981 BMW 520 (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
