2008 Opel Meriva vs. 2012 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Express is newer by 4 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 6,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1366 kg more than 2008 Opel Meriva.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Express 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 2012 Chevrolet Express. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Express (711 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Meriva. (241 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Meriva. 2012 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Meriva | 2012 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Opel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Meriva | Express |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 6600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 260 HP |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 711 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2761 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 2070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 3429 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 117 L |
