2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1986 Citroen Mehari
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 22 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 1318 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.
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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen Mehari. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1986 Citroen Mehari has manual transmission. 1986 Citroen Mehari will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1986 Citroen Mehari | |
| Make | Chrysler | Citroen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Mehari |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
