1993 Lancia Thema vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1993 Lancia Thema is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1993 Lancia Thema. (153 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1993 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lancia Thema. (178 Nm). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Lancia Thema | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | 280 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2460 mm |
