1985 Nissan Prairie vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Prairie would be higher. At 1,685 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 418 kg more than 1985 Nissan Prairie. 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (185 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan Prairie. (121 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan Prairie.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Nissan Prairie | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Prairie | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2740 mm |
