1979 Citroen Mehari vs. 1981 Vauxhall Carlton
To start off, 1981 Vauxhall Carlton is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 1,977 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Vauxhall Carlton is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Vauxhall Carlton weights approximately 625 kg more than 1979 Citroen Mehari.
Because 1981 Vauxhall Carlton 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 1981 Vauxhall Carlton. 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 | 1981 Vauxhall Carlton | |
| Make | Citroen | Vauxhall |
| Model | Mehari | Carlton |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 601 cc | 1977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
