1981 Mazda 121 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 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 300 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121.
Because 1981 Mazda 121 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 Mazda 121. 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 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda 121 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | 121 | Meriva |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1686 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2400 mm |