1980 Citroen Mehari vs. 1986 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1986 Peugeot 309 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 1,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Peugeot 309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Peugeot 309 (64 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Peugeot 309 should accelerate faster than 1980 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Peugeot 309 weights approximately 315 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.
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, 1986 Peugeot 309 (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (40 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Peugeot 309 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Citroen Mehari | 1986 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Citroen | Peugeot |
| Model | Mehari | 309 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
