2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
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 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 158 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 17.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.2 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 53 L |
