1966 Alpine A vs. 1979 Citroen Mehari
To start off, 1979 Citroen Mehari is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Alpine A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Alpine A would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Alpine A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Alpine A (108 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1979 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Alpine A should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Alpine A weights approximately 70 kg more than 1979 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Alpine A 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 1966 Alpine A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Citroen Mehari, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Alpine A | 1979 Citroen Mehari | |
| Make | Alpine | Citroen |
| Model | A | Mehari |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2410 mm |
