1990 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1990 BMW M3 is newer by 12 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 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1978 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Maserati Merak weights approximately 150 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
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:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 1978 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | M3 | Merak |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
