2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1999 Opel Meriva. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Meriva weights approximately 42 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Meriva. (166 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 53 L |
