1979 Citroen Mehari vs. 1982 Talbot Samba
To start off, 1982 Talbot Samba is newer by 3 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 1,219 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Talbot Samba is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Talbot Samba (90 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1979 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Talbot Samba should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Talbot Samba weights approximately 231 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1982 Talbot Samba (102 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1982 Talbot Samba will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen Mehari | 1982 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Citroen | Talbot |
| Model | Mehari | Samba |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 601 cc | 1219 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 786 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2350 mm |
