1988 Lancia Thema vs. 1949 Simca 8
To start off, 1988 Lancia Thema is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Simca 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Simca 8 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1949 Simca 8. (49 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1949 Simca 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 380 kg more than 1949 Simca 8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Simca 8 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 1949 Simca 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Simca 8. (88 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Simca 8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 1949 Simca 8 | |
| Make | Lancia | Simca |
| Model | Thema | 8 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1220 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2450 mm |
