1978 BMW M1 vs. 1981 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1981 Maserati Merak is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1981 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1981 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Maserati Merak weights approximately 50 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
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:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1981 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | M1 | Merak |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
