2002 Opel Meriva vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Opel Meriva is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 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 (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Meriva weights approximately 480 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. 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 Opel Meriva (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Opel Meriva | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Meriva | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 56 L |
