1986 Citroen Mehari vs. 1959 Fiat 1500
To start off, 1986 Citroen Mehari is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 1500 would be higher. At 1,481 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Fiat 1500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Fiat 1500 (79 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Fiat 1500 should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen Mehari.
Because 1959 Fiat 1500 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 1959 Fiat 1500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1959 Fiat 1500 (109 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm). This means 1959 Fiat 1500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen Mehari | 1959 Fiat 1500 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Mehari | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1481 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2350 mm |
