1980 Citroen Mehari vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 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 1,308 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 865 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 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (40 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Citroen Mehari | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Citroen | Mazda |
Model | Mehari | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 602 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 29 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 40 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |