2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (118 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 200 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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 (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Meriva | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
