1992 Lancia Thema vs. 1978 Reliant SE6
To start off, 1992 Lancia Thema is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Reliant SE6 (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1992 Lancia Thema. (116 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 1992 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lancia Thema weights approximately 130 kg more than 1978 Reliant SE6.
Because 1978 Reliant SE6 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 1978 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1992 Lancia Thema (256 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant SE6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lancia Thema | 1978 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Lancia | Reliant |
| Model | Thema | SE6 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
