1981 Citroen Mehari vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (175 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1981 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 945 kg more than 1981 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (270 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Citroen Mehari | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Mehari | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| 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 | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1510 mm |
