1982 Citroen Mehari vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1982 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1982 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 822 kg more than 1982 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Citroen Mehari | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Mehari | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 558 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
