1976 Maserati Merak vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 20 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1976 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1976 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 654 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Maserati Merak | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | S |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2004 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3150 mm |
