1993 Lancia Thema vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 447 more horse power than 1993 Lancia Thema. (116 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1993 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 251 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lancia Thema. (255 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lancia Thema. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Lancia Thema | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thema | SLS |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2680 mm |
