1984 Citroen Mehari vs. 1972 De Tomaso Pantera
To start off, 1984 Citroen Mehari is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,761 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 321 more horse power than 1984 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1984 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 De Tomaso Pantera weights approximately 795 kg more than 1984 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 De Tomaso Pantera 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 1972 De Tomaso Pantera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera (525 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 486 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Citroen Mehari | 1972 De Tomaso Pantera | |
| Make | Citroen | De Tomaso |
| Model | Mehari | Pantera |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 5761 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 525 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
