1996 Dodge Intrepid vs. 1978 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1996 Dodge Intrepid is newer by 18 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 3,522 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Intrepid (214 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1978 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 1978 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 155 kg more than 1978 Maserati Merak. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Intrepid, 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. 1996 Dodge Intrepid has automatic transmission and 1978 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1978 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Intrepid | 1978 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Dodge | Maserati |
| Model | Intrepid | Merak |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 3522 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 214 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5126 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2610 mm |
