1976 Maserati Merak vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1981 Mercury Cougar is newer by 5 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Maserati Merak (188 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 36 kg more than 1976 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Maserati Merak | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercury |
| Model | Merak | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1356 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2690 mm |
