1988 BMW 520 vs. 1981 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1988 BMW 520 is newer by 7 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 28 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1981 Maserati Merak.
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. 1988 BMW 520 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. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1981 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | 520 | Merak |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
