1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 138 kg more than 1998 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2640 mm |
