1993 Lancia Thema vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1993 Lancia Thema is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1993 Lancia Thema. (116 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1993 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Lancia Thema weights approximately 210 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1978 Datsun 280Z 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 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Lancia Thema (255 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1993 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1993 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1993 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Lancia Thema | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Lancia | Datsun |
| Model | Thema | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2304 mm |
