1980 Citroen Mehari vs. 2002 Mazda Laputa
To start off, 2002 Mazda Laputa is newer by 22 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 657 cc (3 cylinders), 2002 Mazda Laputa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda Laputa (52 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda Laputa should accelerate faster than 1980 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda Laputa weights approximately 195 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, 2002 Mazda Laputa (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (40 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda Laputa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Citroen Mehari | 2002 Mazda Laputa | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Mehari | Laputa |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 657 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2370 mm |
