Italy vs Italy — 1971 vs 1963
| Merak SS | Quattroporte 4.2 V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 220 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | 279 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,965 cc | 4,136 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.0 sec | 8.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 152 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,976 lbs | 3,814 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,600 mm | 2,750 mm |
| Length | 4,335 mm | 5,020 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,830 | 759 |
| Original MSRP | $22,000 | $17,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1971 Maserati Merak SS brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight to the table, and the 1963 Maserati Quattroporte 4.2 V8 answers with more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Maserati has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1971 Maserati Merak SS with the 1963 Maserati Quattroporte 4.2 V8 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1963 Maserati Quattroporte 4.2 V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 260 hp compared to 220 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Maserati Merak uses a V6 DOHC displacing 2,965 cc, while the Maserati Quattroporte relies on a V8 DOHC with 4,136 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Maserati Merak SS edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 8.3 seconds. The Maserati Merak carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 838 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1963 Maserati Quattroporte 4.2 V8 commands a significant premium over the 1971 Maserati Merak SS, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1963 Maserati Quattroporte 4.2 V8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.