1980 BMW M5 vs. 1976 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1980 BMW M5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1976 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1976 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M5 weights approximately 41 kg more than 1976 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 1976 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | M5 | Merak |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2610 mm |
