1996 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 10 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 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lancia Thema weights approximately 24 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
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, 1986 Lancia Thema (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1986 Lancia Thema has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Lancia Thema will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Audi | Lancia |
| Model | A3 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
