1980 Citroen Mehari vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 24 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (79 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 780 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, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (173 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (40 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Citroen Mehari | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Citroen | Vauxhall |
| Model | Mehari | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
