1980 Citroen Mehari vs. 1955 Triumph TR2
To start off, 1980 Citroen Mehari is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Triumph TR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Triumph TR2 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Triumph TR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Triumph TR2 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Triumph TR2 should accelerate faster than 1980 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Triumph TR2 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1980 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Triumph TR2 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 Triumph TR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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. Let's talk about torque, 1955 Triumph TR2 (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (40 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1955 Triumph TR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Citroen Mehari | 1955 Triumph TR2 | |
| Make | Citroen | Triumph |
| Model | Mehari | TR2 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2250 mm |
