1982 Maserati Merak vs. 1973 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1982 Maserati Merak is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercury Cougar (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1982 Maserati Merak. (158 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1982 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 300 kg more than 1982 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Maserati Merak | 1973 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercury |
| Model | Merak | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2860 mm |
