1981 Citroen Mehari vs. 2003 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2003 TVR Chimaera 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 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 TVR Chimaera (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1981 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1981 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 505 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.
Because 2003 TVR Chimaera 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 2003 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2003 TVR Chimaera (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Citroen Mehari | 2003 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Citroen | TVR |
| Model | Mehari | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2290 mm |
