1976 Maserati Merak vs. 2007 BMW 318
To start off, 2007 BMW 318 is newer by 31 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 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2007 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 318 weights approximately 230 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. 2007 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. 2007 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Maserati Merak | 2007 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Maserati | BMW |
| Model | Merak | 318 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2730 mm |
