2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Because 1988 Pontiac Firebird 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 1988 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Meriva | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
