1998 Opel Speedster vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Speedster (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 375 kg more than 1998 Opel Speedster.
Because 1998 Opel Speedster 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 1998 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Speedster (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Speedster | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Speedster | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2740 mm |
