2000 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Opel Meriva is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Meriva weights approximately 935 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7.
Because 2000 Caterham 7 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 2000 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 2008 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |
