1985 Citroen Mehari vs. 1982 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 1985 Citroen Mehari is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Skoda Rapid R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Skoda Rapid R (62 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1985 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Skoda Rapid R should accelerate faster than 1985 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Skoda Rapid R weights approximately 295 kg more than 1985 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Skoda Rapid R 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 1982 Skoda Rapid R. 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, 1982 Skoda Rapid R (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1982 Skoda Rapid R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Citroen Mehari | 1982 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Citroen | Skoda |
| Model | Mehari | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1287 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
