1998 Opel Meriva vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 8 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Meriva | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Meriva | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2578 mm |
