2009 BMW 523 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 6 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 95 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.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 523 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 17.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
