2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 850 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 Caterham 7 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 Caterham 7. 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
Make | Caterham | Opel |
Model | 7 | Meriva |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1686 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2640 mm |