1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva

To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 weights approximately 169 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 2003 Opel Meriva
Make Mercedes-Benz Opel
Model 260 Meriva
Year Released 1990 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2599 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 228 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 9.6:1
Top Speed 204 km/hour 165 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1524 kg 1355 kg
Vehicle Length 5030 mm 4050 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1630 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2520 mm