2001 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 3 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 245 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.
Because 2001 BMW 320 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 2001 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2001 BMW 320 (355 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva. 2001 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 320 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
