1987 Lancia Thema vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 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 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (192 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1987 Lancia Thema. (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1987 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 171 kg more than 1987 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lancia Thema. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lancia Thema | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | SLK |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
