1976 Maserati Merak vs. 1999 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 1999 Panoz Esperante is newer by 23 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Panoz Esperante (317 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1976 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1976 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Maserati Merak weights approximately 80 kg more than 1999 Panoz Esperante.
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 | 1999 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Maserati | Panoz |
| Model | Merak | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2700 mm |
