1997 BMW 316 vs. 1987 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1997 BMW 316 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lancia Thema (164 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316.
Because 1997 BMW 316 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 1997 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Lancia Thema (225 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1987 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 1987 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 316 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
