2009 BMW 120 vs. 1980 Maserati Merak
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1980 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1980 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 169 kg more than 1980 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. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1980 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1980 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1980 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | 120 | Merak |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
