1983 Maserati Merak vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 28 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1983 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1983 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 870 kg more than 1983 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. 2011 BMW 550 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. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Maserati Merak | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Maserati | BMW |
| Model | Merak | 550 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3071 mm |
