1983 Maserati Merak vs. 2000 Ford Contour
To start off, 2000 Ford Contour is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2000 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2000 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Maserati Merak weights approximately 102 kg more than 2000 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Ford Contour, 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. 2000 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1983 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1983 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Maserati Merak | 2000 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Maserati | Ford |
| Model | Merak | Contour |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
