1987 Citroen Mehari vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1987 Citroen Mehari is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,043 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volkswagen Polo (39 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 145 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.
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, 1976 Volkswagen Polo (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen Mehari | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mehari | Polo |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
