1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1974 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1974 Maserati Merak is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Maserati Merak (187 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (146 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Maserati Merak weights approximately 140 kg more than 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. 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:
| 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1974 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Maserati |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | Merak |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 2965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1320 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2610 mm |
