2008 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1998 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Meriva. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A3 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |
