2003 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2005 Opel Meriva is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 2005 Opel Meriva. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2005 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 BMW M3 (350 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Meriva. (220 Nm). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2005 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
