1988 Lancia Thema vs. 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1988 Lancia Thema is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 28 kg more than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | SL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1964 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2306 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
