2005 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 2 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 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 292 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 2005 BMW M3 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 2005 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
