1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1985 Citroen Mehari
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1985 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1985 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 635 kg more than 1985 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, 1997 Citroen Xsara (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1985 Citroen Mehari | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | Xsara | Mehari |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
