1977 Ford Cortina vs. 1981 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1981 Maserati Merak is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (123 HP @ 3700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Maserati Merak weights approximately 210 kg more than 1977 Ford Cortina. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Cortina | 1981 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Ford | Maserati |
| Model | Cortina | Merak |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1981 |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |
