1986 Citroen Mehari vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen Mehari.
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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen Mehari. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1986 Citroen Mehari has manual transmission. 1986 Citroen Mehari will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen Mehari | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Citroen | Kia |
| Model | Mehari | Optima |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2730 mm |
