1988 Lancia Thema vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 290 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (225 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thema | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
