1981 Citroen Mehari vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1981 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 800 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Citroen Mehari. 2004 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1981 Citroen Mehari has manual transmission. 1981 Citroen Mehari will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Citroen Mehari | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mehari | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
