2004 Ford Mustang vs. 1981 Maserati Merak
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (261 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1981 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1981 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 168 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.
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 Ford Mustang | 1981 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Ford | Maserati |
| Model | Mustang | Merak |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |
