1980 Maserati Merak vs. 1999 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1999 Mercury Cougar is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 2,530 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercury Cougar (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1980 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1980 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Maserati Merak weights approximately 12 kg more than 1999 Mercury Cougar.
Because 1980 Maserati Merak is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Cougar, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Maserati Merak | 1999 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercury |
| Model | Merak | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2530 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
