1972 AMC Javelin vs. 1986 Citroen Mehari
To start off, 1986 Citroen Mehari is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Javelin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Javelin would be higher. At 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Javelin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Javelin (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Javelin should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Javelin weights approximately 945 kg more than 1986 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 AMC Javelin 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 1972 AMC Javelin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 AMC Javelin (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Javelin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Javelin | 1986 Citroen Mehari | |
| Make | AMC | Citroen |
| Model | Javelin | Mehari |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |
