1988 Lancia Thema vs. 1966 Simca 1200S
To start off, 1988 Lancia Thema is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Simca 1200S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Simca 1200S 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 (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1966 Simca 1200S. (79 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1966 Simca 1200S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 430 kg more than 1966 Simca 1200S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Simca 1200S 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 1966 Simca 1200S. 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 (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Simca 1200S. (106 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Simca 1200S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 1966 Simca 1200S | |
| Make | Lancia | Simca |
| Model | Thema | 1200S |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2240 mm |
