1998 Opel Meriva vs. 2002 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 4 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 277 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, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Meriva | 2002 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Meriva | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
