1978 Maserati Merak vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 31 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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1978 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1978 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 92 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.
Because 1978 Maserati Merak is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 2009 Nissan Altima 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. 2009 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Maserati Merak | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Maserati | Nissan |
Model | Merak | Altima |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2501 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 157 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1442 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2780 mm |