1994 Lancia Thema vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lancia Thema (153 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Lancia Thema weights approximately 88 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1994 Lancia Thema (178 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1994 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Lancia Thema | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thema | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1274 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2340 mm |
