2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1976 Holden Statesman
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,040 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Statesman (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Statesman weights approximately 155 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 1976 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. 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 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva. 1976 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1976 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Opel | Holden |
| Model | Meriva | Statesman |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5040 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2900 mm |
