1989 Lancia Thema vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lancia Thema (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lancia Thema weights approximately 15 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (166 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lancia Thema. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lancia Thema | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thema | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
