1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1985 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1985 Lancia Thema. (212 HP @ 6750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Lancia Thema weights approximately 5 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lancia Thema. (290 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1985 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | Z3 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2927 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
