2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 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 2,261 cc, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva.
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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 13.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
