1976 Maserati Merak vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (415 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1976 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1976 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1016 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 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Maserati Merak. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Maserati Merak | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Maserati | Volkswagen |
| Model | Merak | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2850 mm |
