1980 Citroen Mehari vs. 2008 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent is newer by 28 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1980 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 1005 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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Citroen Mehari. (40 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Citroen Mehari. 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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. 2008 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Citroen Mehari | 2008 Pontiac Torrent | |
| Make | Citroen | Pontiac |
| Model | Mehari | Torrent |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 3425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
