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, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 250 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1981 Mazda 121 (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
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 | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2740 mm |
