1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2001 Opel Meriva is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Meriva weights approximately 275 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2001 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2001 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
