1986 Lancia Thema vs. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (165 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 510 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 2001 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thema | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
