2004 Alpina B3 vs. 1978 Maserati Merak
To start off, 2004 Alpina B3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1978 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alpina B3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1978 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina B3 | 1978 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Alpina | Maserati |
| Model | B3 | Merak |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |
