1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1976 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1976 Maserati Merak is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,658 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Maserati Merak weights approximately 499 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. 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-Healey 100 | 1976 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Maserati |
| Model | 100 | Merak |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2610 mm |
