2003 Opel Meriva vs. 2011 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2011 Dodge Ram is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (118 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Ram weights approximately 828 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.
Because 2011 Dodge Ram is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Dodge Ram (447 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva. 2011 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 2011 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Opel | Dodge |
| Model | Meriva | Ram |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 2308 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 5817 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1877 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3569 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 98 L |
