1986 Lancia Thema vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 21 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 304 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (165 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 770 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 415 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lancia Thema. (285 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lancia Thema. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | CLS |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2860 mm |
