1961 Ford Zodiac vs. 1976 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1976 Maserati Merak is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Maserati Merak weights approximately 159 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. 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:
| 1961 Ford Zodiac | 1976 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Ford | Maserati |
| Model | Zodiac | Merak |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2610 mm |
