2003 BMW 520 vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (165 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (285 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1986 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1986 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 520 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
