1985 Lancia Thema vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 24 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Lancia Thema (212 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL. (210 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Lancia Thema weights approximately 175 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lancia Thema. (290 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lancia Thema. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lancia Thema | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | GL |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 100 L |
