1982 Citroen Mehari vs. 2008 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 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 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1982 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1982 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 762 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.
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 Citroen Xsara (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Citroen Mehari | 2008 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | Mehari | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 558 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2770 mm |
