2008 BMW 120 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 120 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 BMW 120.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2008 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 120 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
