1987 Lancia Thema vs. 2012 Jaguar XJ
To start off, 2012 Jaguar XJ is newer by 25 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jaguar XJ (510 HP) has 410 more horse power than 1987 Lancia Thema. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1987 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 542 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 2012 Jaguar XJ 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 Jaguar XJ. 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, 2012 Jaguar XJ (624 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 403 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lancia Thema. (221 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lancia Thema. 2012 Jaguar XJ 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. 2012 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lancia Thema | 2012 Jaguar XJ | |
| Make | Lancia | Jaguar |
| Model | Thema | XJ |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2445 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 510 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 624 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5127 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1895 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1456 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3032 mm |
