2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 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 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 543 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 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Meriva. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (325 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1973 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 53 L |
