2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,490 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 13 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 17 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
