1984 Lancia Thema vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (202 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1984 Lancia Thema. (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1984 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 325 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (290 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1984 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Lancia Thema | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | C |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
