1976 Maserati Merak vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 36 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1976 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Maserati Merak weights approximately 211 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Maserati Merak | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | Merak | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2329 mm |
