1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 1,904 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 203 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 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 (230 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (201 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
