2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 360 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Meriva | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
