2006 Opel Meriva vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2006 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Meriva weights approximately 3 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Meriva | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Meriva | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 64 L |
