1987 Lancia Thema vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 22 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1987 Lancia Thema. (164 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1987 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 16 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 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lancia Thema. (225 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lancia Thema. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1987 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1987 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lancia Thema | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | E |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2860 mm |
