1988 Lancia Thema vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 24 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (145 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (176 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (166 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema. 2012 Hyundai Elantra 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. 2012 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Lancia | Hyundai |
| Model | Thema | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 48 L |
