1998 Jensen SV-8 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Meriva
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Meriva is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Jensen SV-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Jensen SV-8 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Meriva weights approximately 20 kg more than 1998 Jensen SV-8.
Because 1998 Jensen SV-8 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 1998 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall 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, 1998 Jensen SV-8 (440 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Jensen SV-8 | 2003 Vauxhall Meriva | |
| Make | Jensen | Vauxhall |
| Model | SV-8 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
