2006 Lancia Thesis vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Lancia Thesis is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2006 Lancia Thesis. (185 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Lancia Thesis.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lancia Thesis. (447 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lancia Thesis.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lancia Thesis | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thesis | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 4973 cc |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 471 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
