1981 Maserati Merak vs. 1988 Vauxhall Belmont
To start off, 1988 Vauxhall Belmont is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1988 Vauxhall Belmont. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1988 Vauxhall Belmont. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Maserati Merak weights approximately 390 kg more than 1988 Vauxhall Belmont. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Vauxhall Belmont, 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:
| 1981 Maserati Merak | 1988 Vauxhall Belmont | |
| Make | Maserati | Vauxhall |
| Model | Merak | Belmont |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2530 mm |
