2004 BMW 318 vs. 1999 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1999 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Meriva weights approximately 3 kg more than 2004 BMW 318.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Meriva (230 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1999 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
