Citroen XM

vs

Citroen Mehari

France vs France — 1989 vs 1968

Citroen XM (1989)
Citroen Mehari (1968)
Specifications
XM V6 ExclusiveMehari Standard
Horsepower190 hp29 hp
Torque199 lb-ft29 lb-ft
Engine Size2,946 cc602 cc
0-60 mph8.5 sec
Top Speed142 mph62 mph
¼ Mile16.5 sec
Weight3,395 lbs1,179 lbs
Wheelbase2,850 mm2,370 mm
Length4,713 mm3,530 mm
Units Produced333,400144,953
Value (Excellent)$20,000$45,000
Collectibility6/107/10
Rarity6/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive brings more power, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1968 Citroen Mehari Standard answers with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Citroen has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive with the 1968 Citroen Mehari Standard highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive holds a clear advantage in raw power with 190 hp compared to 29 hp, a 161-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroen XM uses a V6 24V displacing 2,946 cc, while the Citroen Mehari relies on a Flat-2 Air-cooled with 602 cc. The 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive claims a higher top speed at 142 mph compared to 62 mph. The Citroen Mehari carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2216 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1968 Citroen Mehari Standard commands a significant premium over the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.