1987 Citroen Mehari vs. 2005 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 18 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (240 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen Mehari.
Because 2005 Lotus Exige 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 2005 Lotus Exige. 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (237 Nm @ 7000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen Mehari | 2005 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | Mehari | Exige |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2310 mm |
