1999 Opel Meriva vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 1999 Opel Meriva is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Meriva (129 HP) has 70 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Meriva weights approximately 613 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1999 Opel Meriva (220 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Opel Meriva 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Opel Volkswagen
Model Meriva Jetta
Year Released 1999 1980
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 129 HP 59 HP
Torque 220 Nm 95 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 8.2:1
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1438 kg 825 kg
Vehicle Length 4050 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1630 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 40 L