1998 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Lancia Thesis
To start off, 2003 Lancia Thesis is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lancia Thesis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lancia Thesis (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lancia Thesis should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lancia Thesis weights approximately 530 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Lancia Thesis, 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, 2003 Lancia Thesis (306 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Lancia Thesis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2003 Lancia Thesis has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lancia Thesis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2003 Lancia Thesis | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 318 | Thesis |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
