1979 Citroen Mehari vs. 2009 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 30 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1979 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 730 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, 2009 Kia Spectra (136 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen Mehari | 2009 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Citroen | Kia |
| Model | Mehari | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 601 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
