2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1989 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lancia Thema (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1989 Lancia Thema.
Because 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Lancia Thema. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lancia Thema. (225 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1989 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lancia |
| Model | 156 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |
