1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1987 Citroen Mehari
To start off, 1987 Citroen Mehari is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,811 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1987 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Chrysler 1609 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 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 1987 Citroen Mehari | |
| Make | Chrysler | Citroen |
| Model | 1609 | Mehari |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
