1986 Lancia Thema vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 15 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 991 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lancia Thema. (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lancia Thema. 1986 Lancia Thema has automatic transmission and 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has manual transmission. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Lancia Thema will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | ML |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
