1977 Maserati Merak vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Maserati Merak weights approximately 320 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1977 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1977 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Maserati Merak | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | Merak | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2300 mm |
