1972 Maserati Merak vs. 1974 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1974 Mercury Cougar is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 5,764 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Maserati Merak (188 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1974 Mercury Cougar. (152 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 710 kg more than 1972 Maserati Merak.
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:
| 1972 Maserati Merak | 1974 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercury |
| Model | Merak | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 5764 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 2030 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2910 mm |
