1997 BMW S3 vs. 1992 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1992 Lancia Thema. (116 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lancia Thema weights approximately 12 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lancia Thema. (256 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1992 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | S3 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
