2002 Lotus Exige vs. 1983 Maserati Merak
To start off, 2002 Lotus Exige is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Exige (177 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1983 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1983 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Maserati Merak weights approximately 570 kg more than 2002 Lotus Exige.
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:
| 2002 Lotus Exige | 1983 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Lotus | Maserati |
| Model | Exige | Merak |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2610 mm |
