1987 Citroen Mehari vs. 1980 Triumph TR8
To start off, 1987 Citroen Mehari is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR8 would be higher. At 3,523 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Triumph TR8 (138 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Triumph TR8 should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Triumph TR8 weights approximately 260 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 1980 Triumph TR8 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 1980 Triumph TR8. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1980 Triumph TR8 (224 Nm) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm). This means 1980 Triumph TR8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen Mehari | 1980 Triumph TR8 | |
| Make | Citroen | Triumph |
| Model | Mehari | TR8 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 3523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2170 mm |
