2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2008 Opel Meriva. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2008 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
