2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1978 Renault 14
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 14 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 44 more horse power than 1978 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 510 kg more than 1978 Renault 14. 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 14. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 14.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1978 Renault 14 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Meriva | 14 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1218 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 48 L |
