2004 Lancia Thesis vs. 1978 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 2004 Lancia Thesis is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 2,450 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Lancia Thesis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lancia Thesis (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lancia Thesis should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lancia Thesis weights approximately 905 kg more than 1978 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Toyota Starlet 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 1978 Toyota Starlet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Lancia Thesis (226 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (84 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Lancia Thesis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lancia Thesis | 1978 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Lancia | Toyota |
| Model | Thesis | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2450 cc | 1166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
