2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 1981 Maserati Merak
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 28 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1981 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1981 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 341 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.
Because 2009 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Maserati Merak. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Dakota 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. 2009 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Dakota | 1981 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Dodge | Maserati |
| Model | Dakota | Merak |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2610 mm |
