1981 Maserati Merak vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander is newer by 32 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1981 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1981 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 610 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 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, 2013 Toyota Highlander, 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. 2013 Toyota Highlander 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. 2013 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Maserati Merak | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Maserati | Toyota |
| Model | Merak | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2790 mm |
