1984 Lancia Thema vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 28 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (399 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1984 Lancia Thema. (148 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1984 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1101 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 Lancia Thema. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lancia Thema. (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lancia Thema. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Lancia Thema | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | ML |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 399 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 93 L |
