1961 AC Cobra vs. 1980 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1980 Maserati Merak is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,265 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 AC Cobra (256 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1980 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1980 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Maserati Merak weights approximately 376 kg more than 1961 AC Cobra.
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:
| 1961 AC Cobra | 1980 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | AC | Maserati |
| Model | Cobra | Merak |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 4265 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2610 mm |
