1986 Lancia Thema vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 23 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 2,148 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (120 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 75 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lancia Thema. (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | C |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2148 cc |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |
