1986 Lancia Thema vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lancia Thema 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 36 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 167 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Lancia Thema. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lancia Thema. (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thema | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
