1976 Maserati Merak vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 28 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 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Maserati Merak (188 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 260 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. 2004 BMW 318 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. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Maserati Merak | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Maserati | BMW |
| Model | Merak | 318 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1580 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2730 mm |
