1980 Citroen Mehari vs. 1999 Renault Megane

To start off, 1999 Renault Megane is newer by 19 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Megane (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1980 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Megane weights approximately 760 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, 1999 Renault Megane (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (40 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Citroen Mehari. 1999 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1980 Citroen Mehari has manual transmission. 1980 Citroen Mehari will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Citroen Mehari 1999 Renault Megane
Make Citroen Renault
Model Mehari Megane
Year Released 1980 1999
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 602 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 29 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 40 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 555 kg 1315 kg
Vehicle Length 3530 mm 4140 mm
Vehicle Width 1540 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1640 mm 1630 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2590 mm