2001 Opel Meriva vs. 1981 Volvo 265
To start off, 2001 Opel Meriva is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 265 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2001 Opel Meriva. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 265 weights approximately 42 kg more than 2001 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 265 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 1981 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1981 Volvo 265 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Meriva. (166 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Meriva | 1981 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Meriva | 265 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
