2004 Lancia Thesis vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2004 Lancia Thesis is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 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 71 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lancia Thesis should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lancia Thesis weights approximately 390 kg more than 1986 Volvo 242. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. 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 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Lancia Thesis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lancia Thesis | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Thesis | 242 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2450 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2660 mm |
