2005 Lexus IS vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2005 Lexus IS is newer by 7 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus IS (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 225 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 2005 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS. 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, 2005 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva. 2005 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus IS | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Lexus | Opel |
| Model | IS | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2640 mm |
