2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2000 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2000 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 27 kg more than 2000 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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 220 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 Mazda RX-8 | 2000 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 13.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 53 L |
