1986 Lancia Thema vs. 1978 Opel Manta
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (120 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Opel Manta. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lancia Thema weights approximately 100 kg more than 1978 Opel Manta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Manta 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 1978 Opel Manta. 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 (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Manta. (135 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 1978 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Lancia | Opel |
| Model | Thema | Manta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
