2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1976 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 255 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Because 1976 Chrysler 1609 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 1976 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva. 1976 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1976 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Opel | Chrysler |
| Model | Meriva | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 91.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
