1976 Maserati Merak vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1976 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1976 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 246 kg more than 1976 Maserati Merak. 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 Maserati Merak | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Maserati | Pontiac |
| Model | Merak | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2750 mm |
