1998 Opel Meriva vs. 2001 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2001 Opel Zafira is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Zafira (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Zafira weights approximately 70 kg more than 1998 Opel Meriva. 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Zafira. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Zafira. 2001 Opel Zafira 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. 2001 Opel Zafira will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Meriva | 2001 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Meriva | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2700 mm |
