2003 Ascari KZ1 vs. 1986 Citroen Mehari
To start off, 2003 Ascari KZ1 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Citroen Mehari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Citroen Mehari would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ascari KZ1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ascari KZ1 (500 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 471 more horse power than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ascari KZ1 should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ascari KZ1 weights approximately 795 kg more than 1986 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ascari KZ1 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 2003 Ascari KZ1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2003 Ascari KZ1 (550 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 511 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Ascari KZ1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ascari KZ1 | 1986 Citroen Mehari | |
| Make | Ascari | Citroen |
| Model | KZ1 | Mehari |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4941 cc | 602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 550 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1852 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1138 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2636 mm | 2410 mm |
