2003 Opel Meriva vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 302 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 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 Mercedes-Benz E (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Meriva | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Meriva | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 17 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1700 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 80 L |
