1979 Maserati Merak vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 29 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1979 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Maserati Merak | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | CLS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2860 mm |
