1961 Bristol 407 vs. 1984 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1984 Lancia Thema is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Bristol 407. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Bristol 407 would be higher. At 5,130 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Bristol 407 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Bristol 407 (215 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1984 Lancia Thema. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Bristol 407 should accelerate faster than 1984 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Bristol 407 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1984 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Bristol 407 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 1961 Bristol 407. 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, 1961 Bristol 407 (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lancia Thema. (221 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1961 Bristol 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lancia Thema. 1961 Bristol 407 has automatic transmission and 1984 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1984 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1961 Bristol 407 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Bristol 407 | 1984 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Bristol | Lancia |
| Model | 407 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5130 cc | 2445 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 65 L |
