1998 BMW 320 vs. 1980 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 2,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1980 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1980 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 144 kg more than 1980 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. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1980 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1980 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 1980 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | 320 | Merak |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |
