1995 BMW 317 vs. 1984 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1995 BMW 317 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lancia Thema (148 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 317 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1984 Lancia Thema.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1984 Lancia Thema (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1984 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 1984 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 317 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
