1986 Lancia Thema vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 26 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (165 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 648 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lancia Thema. (285 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lancia Thema. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | E |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1798 kg |
