2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 88 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Meriva. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Meriva | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 62 L |
