Italy vs Germany — 1972 vs 1972
| Merak SS | 911 Carrera RS 2.7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 220 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 210 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,965 cc | 2,687 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.9 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 3,042 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,600 mm | 2,271 mm |
| Length | 4,350 mm | 4,147 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,832 | 1,580 |
| Original MSRP | $18,500 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $135,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1972 Maserati Merak SS brings higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Italy and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1972 Maserati Merak SS versus 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1972 Maserati Merak SS producing 220 hp and the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 delivering 210 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Maserati Merak uses a V6 DOHC displacing 2,965 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Porsche 911 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 892 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 commands a significant premium over the 1972 Maserati Merak SS, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.