1988 Lancia Thema vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 25 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 68 kg more than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA.
Because 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Thema | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2330 mm |
