1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Opel Meriva is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2004 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 492 kg more than 2004 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Meriva. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 36 L |
