1983 Citroen Mehari vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220
To start off, 1983 Citroen Mehari is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 (120 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1983 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 should accelerate faster than 1983 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 855 kg more than 1983 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Citroen Mehari | 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mehari | 220 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 601 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
