1981 Maserati Merak vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 30 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, 2011 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1981 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 520 weights approximately 320 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.
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. 2011 BMW 520 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. 2011 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Maserati Merak | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Maserati | BMW |
| Model | Merak | 520 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2968 mm |
