1985 Lancia Thema vs. 1981 Mazda 929
To start off, 1985 Lancia Thema is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Lancia Thema (212 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 929. (89 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Lancia Thema weights approximately 250 kg more than 1981 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda 929 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 1981 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Lancia Thema (290 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lancia Thema | 1981 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Thema | 929 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 1969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
