1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1984 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 12 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1984 Lancia Thema. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1984 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lancia Thema. (221 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lancia Thema. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1984 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1984 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1984 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | Z3 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2445 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
