1987 Citroen Mehari vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1987 Citroen Mehari is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (53 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 275 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, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen Mehari | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mehari | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
