1981 Maserati Merak vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1981 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1981 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1206 kg more than 1981 Maserati Merak. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Maserati Merak. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1981 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1981 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Maserati Merak | 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | GL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2556 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3080 mm |
