1984 Citroen Mehari vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (57 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1984 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1984 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 516 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.
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, 1997 Citroen Xsara (110 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Citroen Mehari | 1997 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | Mehari | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1071 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
