2001 Lotus Elise vs. 1981 Maserati Merak
To start off, 2001 Lotus Elise is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2001 Lotus Elise. (141 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2001 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Maserati Merak weights approximately 635 kg more than 2001 Lotus Elise. 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.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Lotus Elise | 1981 Maserati Merak | |
Make | Lotus | Maserati |
Model | Elise | Merak |
Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 157 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1140 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2610 mm |