1983 Citroen Mehari vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 25 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 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1983 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1983 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 610 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.
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 Volkswagen Polo (196 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Citroen Mehari | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mehari | Polo |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 601 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
