1986 Citroen Mehari vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1986 Citroen Mehari is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,098 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Lotus Seven (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Citroen Mehari weights approximately 135 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven.
Because 1959 Lotus Seven 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 Lotus Seven. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen Mehari | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | Mehari | Seven |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2240 mm |
