2001 BMW 318 vs. 1985 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 16 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 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Lancia Thema (212 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Lancia Thema weights approximately 100 kg more than 2001 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW 318. 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, 1985 Lancia Thema (290 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1985 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 1985 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 318 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2927 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
