1998 Ford Ka vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1998 Ford Ka is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 405 kg more than 1998 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Ka | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Ford | Lancia |
| Model | Ka | Thema |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
