1983 Opel Senator 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 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Senator would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1983 Opel Senator. (85 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Opel Senator weights approximately 17 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Because 1983 Opel Senator 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 Opel Senator. 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 @ 2300 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Senator. (193 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Opel Senator | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Senator | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
