1986 Lancia Thema vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 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 2,445 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP) has 59 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Because 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 (217 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Thema | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2445 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 159 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2340 mm |
