1986 Lancia Thema vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (120 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 698 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lancia Thema. (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lancia Thema. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1986 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1986 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Lancia Thema | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Thema | SL |
Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1848 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |