2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 25 kg more than 1977 Volvo 260.
Because 1977 Volvo 260 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 1977 Volvo 260. 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, 1977 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Meriva | 260 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2660 mm |
