1985 Lancia Thema vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 18 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1985 Lancia Thema. (212 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1985 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 785 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Lancia Thema. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lancia Thema. (290 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lancia Thema. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1985 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1985 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lancia Thema | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | ML |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 83 L |
