1999 Opel Meriva vs. 1974 Seat 131
To start off, 1999 Opel Meriva is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Seat 131. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1974 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Meriva weights approximately 418 kg more than 1974 Seat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Seat 131 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 1974 Seat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Meriva (230 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Seat 131. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Seat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Meriva | 1974 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Opel | Seat |
| Model | Meriva | 131 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2500 mm |
