2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1980 Maserati Merak
To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 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 5,645 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler 300 (335 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1980 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1980 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 554 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.
Because 1980 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 1980 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300, 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. 2009 Chrysler 300 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 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler 300 | 1980 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Chrysler | Maserati |
| Model | 300 | Merak |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 5645 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2610 mm |
