2004 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Maserati Merak
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 23 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 23 more horse power than 2004 Citroen Xsara. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 51 kg more than 1981 Maserati Merak.
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, 2004 Citroen Xsara, 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. 2004 Citroen Xsara 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. 2004 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Citroen | Maserati |
| Model | Xsara | Merak |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1401 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2610 mm |
