1982 Citroen Mehari vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion

To start off, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Starion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1982 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion should accelerate faster than 1982 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion weights approximately 567 kg more than 1982 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Mitsubishi Starion 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 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Citroen Mehari.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Citroen Mehari 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
Make Citroen Mitsubishi
Model Mehari Starion
Year Released 1982 1988
Body Type Convertible Coupe
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 102 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 39 Nm 164 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 558 kg 1125 kg