1986 Citroen BX vs. 1981 Citroen Mehari
To start off, 1986 Citroen BX is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Citroen BX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Citroen BX (61 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1981 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Citroen BX should accelerate faster than 1981 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Citroen BX weights approximately 335 kg more than 1981 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, 1986 Citroen BX (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Citroen BX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen BX | 1981 Citroen Mehari | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | BX | Mehari |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
