2002 Acura CL vs. 1981 Maserati Merak
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 21 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1981 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1981 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 230 kg more than 1981 Maserati Merak. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL, 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. 2002 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1981 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1981 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura CL | 1981 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Acura | Maserati |
| Model | CL | Merak |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |
