The Citroën Méhari. Its name evokes images of vast deserts and resilient dromedaries. But this French marvel is more than just a namesake of a hardy breed of camels. It's a cultural icon, a symbol of freedom, and a testament to Citroën's daring spirit. Born in 1968, at the height of the student revolution in France, the Méhari defied convention. With a revolutionary design and a utilitarian purpose, it carved a niche for itself that transcended the realm of automobiles.
From Brainstorm to Beachcomber: The Méhari's Genesis
The story of the Citroën Méhari begins not on a sandy beach, but in a think tank brimming with innovative ideas. In 1947, French entrepreneur Roland de La Poype established SEAB (Société d'études et d'applications des brevets). This company served as a breeding ground for groundbreaking materials, with a particular focus on plastics and colored resins. SEAB's repertoire included a series of light-duty vans, the AZU and AK, built by Citroën using the chassis of the iconic 2CV and Citroën Ami 6.
One fateful day, a rather significant accident involving one of these vans would become the catalyst for the Méhari's creation. The incident, while substantial enough to damage the van's body severely, left the driver remarkably unscathed. This highlighted a key attribute of Citroën's engineering – a robust mechanical foundation that prioritized occupant safety. It was from this event that the seeds of the Méhari were sown.
De La Poype, ever the visionary, recognized the potential of a lightweight, plastic-bodied vehicle. He envisioned a car that was both functional and affordable, perfect for commercial applications in agriculture and industry. Citroën, always eager to push boundaries, embraced this vision. The result of this collaboration was the Méhari – a name derived from a breed of North African dromedaries, known for their endurance and adaptability.
An Unconventional Look for an Unconventional Vehicle
The Méhari's debut in 1968 was nothing short of a sensation. This wasn't your average car. It was a head-turner, a rolling conversation starter. Its design philosophy was one of radical simplicity. The body, crafted from ABS plastic, comprised a mere 11 components. This minimalist approach not only kept weight down but also streamlined production. The absence of a conventional roof or doors further emphasized the Méhari's utilitarian nature. A removable canvas top and optional roll-up side panels provided a degree of weather protection when needed.
The Méhari's unconventional looks were met with a mix of amusement and intrigue. Some dubbed it a "mobile unidentified object," a moniker that perfectly captured its avant-garde spirit. But beneath its unconventional exterior lay a surprisingly capable machine. The Méhari borrowed its mechanical underpinnings from the Dyane 6, inheriting its air-cooled engine and front-wheel-drive layout. This combination delivered respectable fuel efficiency and decent off-road capability, making the Méhari a true all-rounder.
A Versatile Vehicle for Every Walk of Life
The Méhari's adaptability extended far beyond its utilitarian origins. Its open-air design and beach-friendly demeanor made it a favorite among sun seekers and surfers. It became a ubiquitous sight along the French Riviera and other Mediterranean hotspots. The Méhari's popularity wasn't confined to leisure pursuits. Its rugged construction and easy maintenance made it a valuable asset for military and postal services in various countries. It even found a place in the world of cinema, gracing the silver screen in numerous films.
A Legacy of Freedom and Fun
Production of the Méhari continued for nearly two decades, with over 140,000 units rolling off the assembly line. While the last Méhari officially left the factory in 1987, its legacy lives on. Citroën enthusiasts and collectors continue to cherish these timeless vehicles. The Méhari remains a symbol of a bygone era, a time when simplicity and freedom reigned supreme.
Owning a Piece of History: The Citroën Méhari Today
Finding a Citroën Méhari today is a journey in itself. Classic car dealerships and online marketplaces specializing in vintage vehicles are your best bets. Prices can vary depending on the Méhari's condition, year of manufacture, and rarity. Expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000.