1979 Citroen Mehari vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 27 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1979 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 770 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, 2006 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen Mehari | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Mehari | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 601 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
