2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 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 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 295 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 2003 Alpina B3 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 2003 Alpina B3. 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Alpina | Opel |
| Model | B3 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
