2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1998 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2640 mm |
