1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1984 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1984 Lancia Thema is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lancia Thema (148 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Lancia Thema weights approximately 309 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Thema, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1984 Lancia Thema (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1984 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1984 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Lancia |
| Model | 100 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 65 L |
