2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 5 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 110 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.
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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | Spider | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
