2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1997 Volvo V40
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo V40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 140 kg more than 1997 Volvo V40.
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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1997 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Meriva | V40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| 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 | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
