2005 BMW 320 vs. 1981 Maserati Merak
To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 24 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1981 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1981 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 200 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:
| 2005 BMW 320 | 1981 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | 320 | Merak |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |
