1985 Lancia Thema vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1985 Lancia Thema. (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1985 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 195 kg more than 1985 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lancia Thema. (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lancia Thema | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | C |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
