2003 BMW 520 vs. 1987 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,445 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1987 Lancia Thema. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1987 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1987 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, 1987 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, 1987 Lancia Thema (221 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1987 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 520 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2445 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
