1976 Maserati Merak vs. 2011 BMW 740
To start off, 2011 BMW 740 is newer by 35 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 740 (304 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1976 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1976 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 740 weights approximately 600 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.
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. 2011 BMW 740 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. 2011 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Maserati Merak | 2011 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Maserati | BMW |
| Model | Merak | 740 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 304 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5072 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3070 mm |
