2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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 1,689 cc, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart weights approximately 125 kg more than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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 Mercedes-Benz Smart. 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (240 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (185 Nm). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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 Mercedes-Benz Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | Smart | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Type | electric | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2640 mm |
