2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1977 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 480 kg more than 1977 Renault 12. 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 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1977 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Meriva | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 56 L |
