1955 BMW 501 vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 501 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Because 1955 BMW 501 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 1955 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 501 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
