2002 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 4 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 217 kg more than 1998 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 17 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 53 L |
