2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2008 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Opel Meriva is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Meriva weights approximately 330 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 2008 Opel Meriva (166 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2008 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 2 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1241 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.9 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1050 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |
