Description
Citroën Mehari | 1979
Highlights:
- Rebuilt with new and improved engine
- Original blue plastic bodywork, not repainted
- Two complete soft top enclosures included
- Registered as a historic vehicle in Spain
The seller offers for sale this 1979 Citroën Mehari, a classic French utility vehicle now fully rebuilt from the ground up. It is equipped with a 602cc 2-cylinder petrol engine, newly installed and enhanced during restoration, and mated to a manual transmission.
The Mehari’s most distinctive feature is its ABS plastic body, finished here in a vibrant blue that was molded in color—no paint was used, meaning chips or scratches reveal no contrast underneath. This lightweight and corrosion-resistant bodywork makes the Mehari ideal for warm climates and coastal environments. Two removable soft top covers are included for enclosed driving, offering practical adaptability to changing weather.
The interior features new artificial leather seats in a 4-seat configuration. The dashboard, steering wheel, and switchgear are all in fresh, working condition, with functionality confirmed for lights, indicators, and braking systems. No parts are missing or require replacement. The simplicity of the Mehari’s design is preserved, with no modern technical upgrades such as power steering or disc brakes, in line with its original specifications.
The mechanical state of the car is good, the car has a valid technical inspection and ready to drive.
The Citroën Mehari was introduced in 1968 as a versatile light utility vehicle built on the Dyane 6 platform. Its name comes from a fast-running North African camel, fitting its purpose as a rugged, adaptable all-terrain car. Meharis were produced until 1987, with around 145,000 units built, many of which were used by the French military, farmers, and seaside resorts.
Designed by Roland de La Poype, the Mehari’s body was molded from ABS plastic, making it light, flexible, and impervious to rust. It was also fully washable, both inside and out. Its minimalistic design and modular construction allowed for doors, roof, and windows to be removed entirely, transforming it into a beach cruiser or countryside hauler with ease. The vehicle’s flat floor, elevated suspension, and simple mechanics made it popular in rural and island environments, where serviceability was key.
Today, the Mehari has gained a loyal following among collectors of quirky vintage utility vehicles. Its unique appearance, practicality, and period-correct charm make it an icon of 1970s European automotive design. Restored examples like this one, especially with low mileage and a documented rebuild, are increasingly hard to find.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Valencia, Spain.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Spanish registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.