1981 Maserati Merak vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 21 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. Both 1981 Maserati Merak and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Maserati Merak weights approximately 60 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | SLK |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
