1980 Maserati Merak vs. 2008 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 28 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 44 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 19 kg more than 1980 Maserati Merak.
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 BMW 316 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. 2008 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Maserati Merak | 2008 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Maserati | BMW |
| Model | Merak | 316 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2730 mm |
