2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 5 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 480 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, 2003 Opel Meriva (230 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 13.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 52 L |
