1992 BMW 540 vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1992 BMW 540 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 557 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 540 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 1992 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lancia Thema. (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 540 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3982 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1721 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
