1985 Lancia Thema vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 20 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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1985 Lancia Thema. (212 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1985 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 325 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lancia Thema. (290 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lancia Thema. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lancia Thema | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | E |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
