The minivan Opel Meriva 2003 - 2005 year modification 1.4 MT (90 hp)

Opel Meriva 1.4 MT (90 hp): A Compact Minivan with Practicality and Efficiency

The Opel Meriva, a compact minivan produced between 2003 and 2005, is a versatile and family-friendly vehicle designed for practicality and efficiency. With its German engineering and thoughtful design, the Meriva offers a balanced combination of space, comfort, and performance. This article delves into the key features, strengths, and limitations of the Opel Meriva 1.4 MT (90 hp) model, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers.

Overview and Design

The Opel Meriva is a five-door minivan that falls under the M-class category, making it an ideal choice for families or individuals seeking a spacious yet compact vehicle. Its dimensions—4042 mm in length, 1694 mm in width, and 1624 mm in height—ensure a comfortable interior without compromising maneuverability. The car's wheelbase of 2630 mm contributes to a stable and smooth ride, while the 175/70/R14 wheel size provides a good balance between comfort and handling.

The Meriva's design emphasizes practicality, with a trunk volume ranging from 350 liters to an impressive 1410 liters when the rear seats are folded down. This flexibility makes it suitable for both daily commutes and longer trips. The car's curb weight of 1330 kg and gross weight of 1785 kg further highlight its robust build and capacity to handle varying loads.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the Opel Meriva 1.4 MT is powered by a 1.4-liter petrol engine with a front, transverse layout. The naturally aspirated engine delivers 90 horsepower (66 kW) at 5600 rpm and a maximum torque of 125 N*m at 4000 rpm. While the acceleration to 100 km/h in 13.8 seconds may not be groundbreaking, it is sufficient for urban driving and highway cruising. The car's top speed of 168 km/h ensures it can keep up with traffic demands.

Fuel efficiency is one of the Meriva's strong suits, with a combined fuel consumption of 6.4 liters per 100 km. The city consumption stands at 8.3 liters, while highway driving reduces it to 5.3 liters, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious drivers. The 53-liter fuel tank capacity ensures fewer stops at the pump, enhancing convenience for long-distance travel.

Transmission and Handling

The Meriva 1.4 MT features a 5-speed manual transmission, offering drivers precise control over gear shifts and a more engaging driving experience. The front-wheel-drive system ensures reliable traction and stability, particularly in urban environments. The independent front suspension and semi-independent rear suspension, both with spring systems, contribute to a comfortable ride by absorbing road imperfections effectively.

Braking performance is solid, with ventilated disc brakes at the front and standard disc brakes at the rear. This setup provides consistent stopping power, enhancing safety and driver confidence. The car's Euro NCAP safety rating of 4 out of 5 further underscores its commitment to passenger protection.

Pros and Cons

The Opel Meriva 1.4 MT offers several advantages, including its spacious interior, flexible cargo space, and fuel efficiency. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through city streets, while the robust suspension ensures a comfortable ride. However, the car's modest acceleration and dated design may not appeal to those seeking a more dynamic or modern vehicle.

• Pros: Spacious interior, excellent fuel efficiency, practical cargo space, reliable safety features, and comfortable suspension.
• Cons: Slow acceleration, dated design, and limited power output.

Conclusion

The Opel Meriva 1.4 MT (90 hp) is a practical and efficient minivan that excels in providing comfort and versatility for families and individuals alike. While it may not be the most powerful or stylish option on the market, its reliability, fuel economy, and spacious design make it a strong contender in the compact minivan segment. For those prioritizing practicality and affordability, the Meriva is a worthy choice.