1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2005 Opel Meriva is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2005 Opel Meriva. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 754 kg more than 2005 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 S (330 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Meriva. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4050 mm |
