2007 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva. 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
