1955 Austin A 40 vs. 1978 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1978 Maserati Merak is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Maserati Merak weights approximately 320 kg more than 1955 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 40 | 1978 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Austin | Maserati |
| Model | A 40 | Merak |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2610 mm |
