2008 Opel Meriva vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 510 kg more than 2008 Opel Meriva.
Because 2011 BMW M3 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Meriva | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Meriva | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 414 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.3 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 63 L |
