1987 Lancia Thema vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1987 Lancia Thema. (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK should accelerate faster than 1987 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK weights approximately 605 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 Mercedes-Benz GLK 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 GLK. 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 Mercedes-Benz GLK (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lancia Thema. (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lancia Thema. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 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 Mercedes-Benz GLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lancia Thema | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | GLK |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1887 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1699 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2756 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |
