2006 Opel Meriva vs. 1980 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2006 Opel Meriva is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Meriva weights approximately 643 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volkswagen 1302 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 1980 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Meriva | 1980 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Meriva | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
