1983 Citroen Mehari vs. 1979 Subaru Rex
To start off, 1983 Citroen Mehari is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Subaru Rex would be higher. At 601 cc (2 cylinders), 1983 Citroen Mehari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 29 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Citroen Mehari weights approximately 20 kg more than 1979 Subaru Rex.
Because 1979 Subaru Rex 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 1979 Subaru Rex. 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, 1979 Subaru Rex (42 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Subaru Rex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Citroen Mehari | 1979 Subaru Rex | |
| Make | Citroen | Subaru |
| Model | Mehari | Rex |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 601 cc | 543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 1930 mm |
