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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 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 405 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lancia Thema. (290 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lancia Thema.
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 | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
