1987 Lancia Thema vs. 1991 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1991 Lotus Esprit is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,445 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Esprit (172 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1987 Lancia Thema. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1987 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lancia Thema weights approximately 225 kg more than 1991 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1991 Lotus Esprit 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 1991 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, both vehicles can yield 221 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lancia Thema | 1991 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Thema | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2445 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 172 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2460 mm |
