1988 Lancia Thema vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (118 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 weights approximately 569 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 E500 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Lancia Thema. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will offer significantly more control. 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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 E500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | E500 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2447 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1919 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
