1977 Maserati Merak vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 31 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1977 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1977 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 385 kg more than 1977 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Maserati Merak | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | CLS |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2860 mm |
