1976 Maserati Merak vs. 1979 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1979 Mazda Cosmo is newer by 3 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 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Maserati Merak weights approximately 260 kg more than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. 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. 1979 Mazda Cosmo has automatic transmission and 1976 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1976 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mazda Cosmo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Maserati Merak | 1979 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | Merak | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
