2004 Opel Meriva vs. 1978 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2004 Opel Meriva is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Reliant SE6 (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Meriva weights approximately 130 kg more than 1978 Reliant SE6.
Because 1978 Reliant SE6 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 1978 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1978 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Meriva. (230 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Meriva | 1978 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Meriva | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
