1998 Opel Meriva vs. 1986 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (99 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1986 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 525 kg more than 1986 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Skoda Rapid R 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 1986 Skoda Rapid R. 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 (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Meriva | 1986 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Opel | Skoda |
| Model | Meriva | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 62 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
