2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Espace would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Espace (111 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 250 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva. 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, 1997 Renault Espace (234 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Meriva | Espace |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2710 mm |
