1986 Lancia Thema vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (150 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 186 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Because 1978 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 1978 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 (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Thema | 260 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 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 |
