1986 Lancia Thema vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (120 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Lancia Thema (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1986 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1986 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Thema | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
