2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1984 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1984 Lancia Thema. (148 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1984 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Lancia Thema weights approximately 620 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1984 Lancia Thema (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1984 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1984 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Caterham | Lancia |
| Model | 7 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2670 mm |
