1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 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 57 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 510 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
