1979 Maserati Merak vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (94 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 85 kg more than 1979 Maserati Merak.
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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1979 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1979 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Maserati Merak | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | SLK |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
