1974 Maserati Merak vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Maserati Merak 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 2 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1974 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. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1974 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1974 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Maserati Merak | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | 280 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1560 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2940 mm |
