1986 Opel Senator vs. 1999 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1999 Opel Meriva is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Senator would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Meriva (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1986 Opel Senator. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Meriva weights approximately 118 kg more than 1986 Opel Senator. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Opel Senator. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Meriva (220 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Senator. (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Opel Senator | 1999 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Senator | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
