1984 Lancia Thema vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 22 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 2,445 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1984 Lancia Thema. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1984 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 450 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (341 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lancia Thema. (221 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lancia Thema. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Lancia Thema | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | C |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2445 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 341 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
