2003 Vauxhall Meriva vs. 1978 Volvo 66

To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Meriva is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall Meriva (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall Meriva should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Meriva weights approximately 490 kg more than 1978 Volvo 66. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Volvo 66 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 1978 Volvo 66. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall 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 Vauxhall Meriva (165 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm). This means 2003 Vauxhall Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66. 1978 Volvo 66 has automatic transmission and 2003 Vauxhall Meriva has manual transmission. 2003 Vauxhall Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 66 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Vauxhall Meriva 1978 Volvo 66
Make Vauxhall Volvo
Model Meriva 66
Year Released 2003 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1686 cc 1289 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 56 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 165 Nm 94 Nm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 830 kg
Vehicle Length 4050 mm 3910 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1550 mm
Vehicle Height 1630 mm 1390 mm