1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2000 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2000 Opel Meriva is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 2000 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 326 kg more than 2000 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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 E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Meriva. (229 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Meriva. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2000 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2000 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2000 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 343 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1676 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 53 L |
