2003 Lancia Thesis vs. 1999 Volkswagen Fusca

To start off, 2003 Lancia Thesis is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lancia Thesis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lancia Thesis (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lancia Thesis should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lancia Thesis weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Volkswagen Fusca 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 1999 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Lancia Thesis, 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, 2003 Lancia Thesis (306 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Fusca. (105 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Lancia Thesis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Fusca. 2003 Lancia Thesis has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Fusca has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Fusca will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lancia Thesis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Lancia Thesis 1999 Volkswagen Fusca
Make Lancia Volkswagen
Model Thesis Fusca
Year Released 2003 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3179 cc 1585 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 52 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 306 Nm 105 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 2600 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1820 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4890 mm 4060 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1550 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2410 mm