1987 Citroen Mehari vs. 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1987 Citroen Mehari is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 305 kg more than 1987 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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:
| 1987 Citroen Mehari | 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mehari | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
