2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,684 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1999 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1999 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 17 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 53 L |
