Especificaciones y análisis del Opel Meriva
Power
75HP
Torque
165Nm
Consumption
5.4l/100
Emissions
-g/km
0-100 km/h
17s
Top Speed
161km/h
Weight
1393kg
Price
15,530€
Technical summary
Gasóleo
Manual 5v
FWD
5 / 5 doors
350 L
53 L
55 kW
Current
Technical specifications
Engine
Capacities
Detailed analysis of the Opel Meriva Cosmo 1.7 DTi · 75 CV (2003-2005)
General description
The 2003 Opel Meriva, in its Cosmo 1.7 DTi version, is presented as a compact minivan designed for family life. With its 4042 mm length, it offered a balance between contained exterior size and a surprisingly versatile interior. Its 75 hp diesel engine, although modest in power, promised efficiency and reasonable maintenance costs, making it a practical option for everyday use.
Driving experience
Behind the wheel of the Meriva 1.7 DTi, the predominant feeling was one of functionality and comfort. The electric power steering facilitated maneuvers in the city, while the suspension, McPherson type at the front and trailing arm with torsional element at the rear, absorbed road irregularities with solvency. It was not a car for strong emotions, with an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 17 seconds and a top speed of 161 km/h, but its behavior was predictable and safe, ideal for family trips without surprises. The diesel engine, although not outstanding for its refinement, offered a torque of 165 Nm at 1800 rpm, which translated into an adequate response for urban traffic and good recovery capacity on the road, always within its power limits.
Design and aesthetics
The design of the 2003 Opel Meriva was typically Opel of the era, with soft lines and a silhouette that prioritized habitability. Its 5-door body and a height of 1624 mm gave it a robust and functional presence. The interior, although not luxurious, was well resolved, with durable materials and a logical arrangement of controls. The true innovation lay in its FlexSpace seating system, which allowed great modularity, transforming the interior space to adapt to different cargo or passenger needs. The rear seats could slide, fold down or even be removed individually, offering uncommon versatility in its segment.
Technology and features
In the technological section, the 2003 Meriva 1.7 DTi incorporated practical elements for the time. Its direct injection diesel engine with turbo and intercooler was an efficient solution to reduce consumption, which stood at 5.4 l/100km in combined cycle. The electric power steering contributed to more comfortable and efficient driving. In terms of safety, it had ventilated front disc brakes and rear discs, ensuring adequate braking capacity. Although it did not have the advanced driving aids of today, its equipment was competitive for its segment and year of launch.
Competition
In the compact minivan market of 2003, the Opel Meriva faced competitors such as the Renault Scénic, the Citroën Xsara Picasso or the Fiat Multipla. Compared to them, the Meriva stood out for its FlexSpace seating system, which offered superior modularity, and for its more compact size, which made it more manageable in urban environments. While other rivals could offer more powerful engines or a bolder design, the Meriva was positioned as a balanced, practical option with a good compromise between interior space and exterior dimensions.
Conclusion
The 2003 Opel Meriva Cosmo 1.7 DTi was a vehicle that more than fulfilled its purpose: to offer versatile and efficient family transport. Its functional design, its modular interior and its low-consumption diesel engine made it a very attractive option for those looking for a practical car for everyday use and for family getaways. Although it was not a car that stood out for its sporty performance, its reliability and its focus on functionality made it a much-appreciated travel companion by its owners.