1989 BMW 518 vs. 2005 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2005 Opel Meriva is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Meriva weights approximately 215 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW 518 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 1989 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, both vehicles can yield 165 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 518 | 2005 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 518 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
