1956 BMW 501 vs. 1993 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1993 Lancia Thema is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Lancia Thema (153 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1993 Lancia Thema.
Because 1956 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 1956 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1956 BMW 501 (222 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lancia Thema. (178 Nm). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1993 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 501 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
