1999 BMW 328 vs. 1980 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1999 BMW 328 is newer by 19 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 328 (193 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1980 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1980 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 328 weights approximately 126 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. 1999 BMW 328 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. 1999 BMW 328 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 328 | 1980 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | 328 | Merak |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 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 |
