1976 Maserati Merak vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1976 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1976 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Maserati Merak weights approximately 25 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | SLK |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
