1987 Citroen Mehari vs. 1981 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1987 Citroen Mehari is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Plymouth Horizon (62 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Plymouth Horizon should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Plymouth Horizon weights approximately 445 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, 1981 Plymouth Horizon (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Plymouth Horizon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen Mehari | 1981 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Citroen | Plymouth |
| Model | Mehari | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2530 mm |
