1986 Lancia Thema vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (165 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Volvo 260 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Because 1975 Volvo 260 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 1975 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (285 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Thema | 260 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
