2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva

To start off, both 2003 Mazda RX-8 and 2003 Opel Meriva were released in the same year (2003). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.

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