1985 Citroen Mehari vs. 1958 Ford Popular

To start off, 1985 Citroen Mehari is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Ford Popular is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Citroen Mehari (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1958 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Citroen Mehari should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Ford Popular weights approximately 180 kg more than 1985 Citroen Mehari.

Because 1958 Ford Popular 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 1958 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1958 Ford Popular (63 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1958 Ford Popular will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Citroen Mehari.

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