2002 Opel Meriva vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2002 Opel Meriva is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Meriva weights approximately 598 kg more than 1973 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Kadett 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 1973 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Opel Meriva (241 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Opel Meriva | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Meriva | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 43 L |
