1979 Maserati Merak vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 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 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Maserati Merak weights approximately 210 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Maserati Merak | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | Merak | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2270 mm |
