1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1989 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1989 Lancia Thema is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (146 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1989 Lancia Thema. (118 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III should accelerate faster than 1989 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lancia Thema weights approximately 35 kg more than 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III.
Because 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 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 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, both vehicles can yield 165 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1989 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Lancia |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | Thema |
| Year Released | 1967 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
