1988 BMW M3 vs. 1993 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1993 Lancia Thema is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Lancia Thema (205 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Lancia Thema weights approximately 34 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 1988 BMW M3. 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, 1993 Lancia Thema (298 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1993 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1993 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | M3 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
