1983 Citroen Mehari vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 26 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1983 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1983 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 965 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Citroen Mehari | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mehari | C |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 601 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
