1998 Ferrari 456M vs. 1979 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1998 Ferrari 456M is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari 456M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari 456M (435 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 1979 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari 456M should accelerate faster than 1979 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari 456M weights approximately 340 kg more than 1979 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 Ferrari 456M has automatic transmission and 1979 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1979 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ferrari 456M will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ferrari 456M | 1979 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Ferrari | Maserati |
| Model | 456M | Merak |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 5474 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 435 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2610 mm |
