2003 Opel Meriva vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 31 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 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. 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 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva. 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Meriva | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 64 L |
