2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 15 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (310 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2640 mm |
