1996 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 334 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
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, 1998 Opel Meriva (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MX-3 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-3 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 53 L |
