1998 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1979 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Lumina. (155 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Lumina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 160 kg more than 1979 Maserati Merak.
Because 1979 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 1979 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Lumina, 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. 1998 Chevrolet Lumina has automatic transmission and 1979 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1979 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chevrolet Lumina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Lumina | 1979 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Maserati |
| Model | Lumina | Merak |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2610 mm |
