1981 Chrysler Avenger vs. 1999 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1999 Opel Meriva is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chrysler Avenger would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Meriva weights approximately 513 kg more than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Chrysler Avenger 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 Chrysler Avenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Meriva (230 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (93 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chrysler Avenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chrysler Avenger | 1999 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | Avenger | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
