2005 Opel Meriva vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Opel Meriva is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,684 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Meriva weights approximately 415 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. 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, 2005 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Meriva | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Meriva | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1684 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
