1973 Maserati Merak vs. 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1973 Maserati Merak is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Maserati Merak (187 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Maserati Merak weights approximately 460 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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:
| 1973 Maserati Merak | 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Maserati | Volkswagen |
| Model | Merak | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 860 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2430 mm |
