1983 BMW 316 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,765 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 316 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 440 kg more than 1983 BMW 316.
Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. 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 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 316 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 158 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
