France vs France — 1968 vs 1970
| Mehari Standard | GS Birotor | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 29 hp | 107 hp |
| Torque | 29 lb-ft | 100 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1,990 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 13.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 62 mph | 109 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 19.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,179 lbs | 2,425 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,370 mm | 2,550 mm |
| Length | 3,530 mm | 4,120 mm |
| Units Produced | 144,953 | 847 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1968 Citroen Mehari Standard offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Citroen has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1968 Citroen Mehari Standard with the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1970 Citroen GS Birotor holds a clear advantage in raw power with 107 hp compared to 29 hp, a 78-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 GS relies on a Twin-rotor Wankel with 1,990 cc. The 1970 Citroen GS Birotor claims a higher top speed at 109 mph compared to 62 mph. The Citroen Mehari carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1246 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 847 units built, the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor is considerably scarcer than the Citroen Mehari's 144,953 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor commands a significant premium over the 1968 Citroen Mehari Standard, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.