2004 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 16 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 (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1988 Lancia Thema.
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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (225 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1988 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Audi | Lancia |
| Model | A3 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
