1982 Maserati Merak vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1982 Maserati Merak. (158 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1982 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 540 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1982 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1982 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Maserati Merak | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | CLS |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2875 mm |
