1981 Maserati Merak vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 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 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 9 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 155 kg more than 1981 Maserati Merak.
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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Maserati Merak | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Maserati | Volkswagen |
| Model | Merak | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2651 mm |
