1987 Citroen Mehari vs. 1996 Citroen Xantia
To start off, 1996 Citroen Xantia is newer by 9 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 2,088 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Citroen Xantia (108 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 880 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, 1996 Citroen Xantia (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen Mehari | 1996 Citroen Xantia | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | Mehari | Xantia |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 2088 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2750 mm |
