2002 Dodge Stratus vs. 2003 Vauxhall Meriva
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Meriva is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Dodge Stratus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Dodge Stratus would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Stratus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Stratus (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Stratus should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Stratus weights approximately 105 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Dodge Stratus (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. (138 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Stratus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. 2002 Dodge Stratus has automatic transmission and 2003 Vauxhall Meriva has manual transmission. 2003 Vauxhall Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Dodge Stratus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Stratus | 2003 Vauxhall Meriva | |
| Make | Dodge | Vauxhall |
| Model | Stratus | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2640 mm |
