2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 125 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1978 Opel Rekord. 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 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (126 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Meriva | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
