1978 Maserati Merak vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 34 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1978 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 530 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. 2012 Nissan Xterra 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. 2012 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Maserati Merak | 2012 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Maserati | Nissan |
| Model | Merak | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2700 mm |
