1986 Citroen Mehari vs. 1962 MG MGA
To start off, 1986 Citroen Mehari is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 MG MGA (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 MG MGA weights approximately 345 kg more than 1986 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 MG MGA 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 1962 MG MGA. 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, 1962 MG MGA (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1962 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen Mehari | 1962 MG MGA | |
| Make | Citroen | MG |
| Model | Mehari | MGA |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2390 mm |
