2003 Ford C-MAX vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Ford C-MAX 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford C-MAX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford C-MAX (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford C-MAX should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford C-MAX weights approximately 12 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 Ford C-MAX (344 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford C-MAX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford C-MAX | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | C-MAX | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
