1979 Citroen Mehari vs. 1955 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1979 Citroen Mehari is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,785 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Ford Thunderbird (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1979 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 921 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 1955 Ford Thunderbird 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 1955 Ford Thunderbird. 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:
| 1979 Citroen Mehari | 1955 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Mehari | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 601 cc | 4785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2600 mm |
