1978 Maserati Merak vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (175 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 315 kg more than 1978 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1978 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1978 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Maserati Merak | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2720 mm |
