2004 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 406 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.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (185 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1799 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 52 L |
