1981 Maserati Merak vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 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 33 more horse power than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Maserati Merak weights approximately 192 kg more than 2007 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:
| 1981 Maserati Merak | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | Merak | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 124 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 | 1350 kg | 1158 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2340 mm |
