1976 Maserati Merak vs. 2011 Ford Fusion
To start off, 2011 Ford Fusion 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Fusion (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1976 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1976 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Fusion weights approximately 279 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 1976 Maserati Merak is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Fusion, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Fusion 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 Ford Fusion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Maserati Merak | 2011 Ford Fusion | |
| Make | Maserati | Ford |
| Model | Merak | Fusion |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1629 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2728 mm |
