2003 Opel Speedster vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Speedster is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Speedster (145 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 510 kg more than 2003 Opel Speedster.
Because 2003 Opel Speedster 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 2003 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2003 Opel Speedster (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (185 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Speedster | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Speedster | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 52 L |
