1979 Maserati Merak vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1979 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1979 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 825 kg more than 1979 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Maserati Merak | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | R |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3220 mm |
