2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 18 would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 325 kg more than 1981 Renault 18. 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Meriva | 18 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2450 mm |
