1988 Lancia Thema vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 21 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 860 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2920 mm |
