1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 120 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lancia Thema weights approximately 640 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 7 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Caterham | Lancia |
| Model | Super 7 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2670 mm |
