1981 Matra-Simca Murena 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 Matra-Simca Murena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Matra-Simca Murena would be higher. At 2,154 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Matra-Simca Murena is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (91 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 385 kg more than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Matra-Simca Murena 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 Matra-Simca Murena. 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, 2003 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (136 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Matra-Simca Murena | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Opel |
| Model | Murena | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2154 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 13.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2740 mm |
