1988 Lancia Thema vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 506 kg more than 1988 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 516 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1988 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1988 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | E |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1836 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
