1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2002 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2002 Opel Meriva is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,969 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (152 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2002 Opel Meriva. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2002 Opel Meriva. 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2002 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
