1998 Opel Meriva vs. 1980 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 293 kg more than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Because 1980 Chrysler 1609 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 1980 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (185 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609. 1980 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Meriva | 1980 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Opel | Chrysler |
| Model | Meriva | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1685 cc | 1812 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |
