France vs France — 1968 vs 1986
| Mehari Standard | AX GTI | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 29 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 29 lb-ft | 89 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1,360 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 8.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 62 mph | 118 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 16.8 sec |
| Weight | 1,179 lbs | 1,587 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,370 mm | 2,290 mm |
| Length | 3,530 mm | 3,530 mm |
| Units Produced | 144,953 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $15,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1968 Citroen Mehari Standard brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1986 Citroen AX GTI answers with more power, higher top speed, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Citroen has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1968 Citroen Mehari Standard with the 1986 Citroen AX GTI highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1986 Citroen AX GTI holds a clear advantage in raw power with 100 hp compared to 29 hp, a 71-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroen Mehari uses a Flat-2 Air-cooled displacing 602 cc, while the Citroen AX relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 1,360 cc. The 1986 Citroen AX GTI claims a higher top speed at 118 mph compared to 62 mph. The Citroen Mehari carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 408 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1968 Citroen Mehari Standard commands a significant premium over the 1986 Citroen AX GTI, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Citroen Mehari Standard rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.