1986 Lancia Thema vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 25 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (165 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1025 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Lancia Thema. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lancia Thema. (285 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lancia Thema. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | ML |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2913 mm |
