1981 Maserati Merak vs. 1977 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1981 Maserati Merak is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1977 Mercury Cougar. (133 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1977 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 505 kg more than 1981 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Maserati Merak | 1977 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercury |
| Model | Merak | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2910 mm |
