1988 Lancia Thema vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1988 Lancia Thema. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Thema | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
