1976 Ford Cortina vs. 1974 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1976 Ford Cortina is newer by 2 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 97 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (90 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Maserati Merak weights approximately 206 kg more than 1976 Ford Cortina. 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:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 1974 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Ford | Maserati |
| Model | Cortina | Merak |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1320 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2610 mm |
