1996 Nissan Sentra 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 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 Nissan Sentra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Sentra | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Sentra | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2740 mm |
