1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 138 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (230 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva. 1996 BMW Z3 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. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | Z3 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 52 L |
