1988 Lancia Thema vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 24 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 108 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thema | GTI |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2578 mm |
