2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2000 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2000 Opel Meriva. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 146 kg more than 2000 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Meriva. (138 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2000 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 44 L |
