1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1978 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 260 kg more than 1978 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1978 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Ford | Maserati |
| Model | Thunderbird | Merak |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2610 mm |
