1976 Maserati Merak vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 13 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (185 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1976 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1976 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 70 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.
Because 1976 Maserati Merak is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 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. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Maserati Merak | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Maserati | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Merak | 164 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2670 mm |
