1992 Lancia Thema vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1992 Lancia Thema. (116 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1992 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 66 kg more than 1992 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lancia Thema. (256 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lancia Thema. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1992 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1992 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lancia Thema | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | SLK |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2440 mm |
