1986 Lancia Thema vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 621 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1986 Lancia Thema has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | C |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
