2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf 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 (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (50 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 625 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. 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 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Meriva | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 50 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| 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 | 1375 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 45 L |
