1987 Citroen Mehari vs. 1990 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1990 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Reliant Scimitar (75 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 285 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 1990 Reliant Scimitar 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 1990 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 1990 Reliant Scimitar (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen Mehari | 1990 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | Mehari | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2140 mm |
