1980 Maserati Merak vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 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 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 53 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Maserati Merak weights approximately 240 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 Maserati Merak | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | Merak | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
