1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 670 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 13.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 53 L |
