1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Opel Meriva is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Meriva (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Meriva weights approximately 280 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 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 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 13.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 53 L |
