1980 Maserati Merak vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1980 Maserati Merak is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Maserati Merak weights approximately 413 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343. 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. 1974 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1980 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1980 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Maserati Merak | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Maserati | Volvo |
| Model | Merak | 343 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2400 mm |
