1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2001 Opel Meriva is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2001 Opel Meriva. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 240 kg more than 2001 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Thunderbird 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 1997 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Meriva. (166 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 53 L |
