1987 Citroen Mehari vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 25 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 1,000 cc (3 cylinders), 2012 Smart ForTwo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Smart ForTwo (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen Mehari.
Because 2012 Smart ForTwo 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 2012 Smart ForTwo. 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, 2012 Smart ForTwo (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen Mehari. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1987 Citroen Mehari has manual transmission. 1987 Citroen Mehari will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Citroen Mehari | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
Make | Citroen | Smart |
Model | Mehari | ForTwo |
Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 602 cc | 1000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 29 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 39 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |