1983 Citroen Mehari vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 256 more horse power than 1983 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1983 Citroen Mehari.
Because 1996 Lotus Esprit 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 1996 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 471 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Citroen Mehari | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Citroen | Lotus |
Model | Mehari | Esprit |
Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 601 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 29 HP | 285 HP |
Torque | 39 Nm | 510 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2420 mm |