2004 Audi A8 vs. 1988 Lancia Thema

To start off, 2004 Audi A8 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 5,998 cc, 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (450 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 745 kg more than 1988 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Lancia Thema. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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 A8 (560 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema. 2004 Audi A8 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 A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Audi A8 1988 Lancia Thema
Make Audi Lancia
Model A8 Thema
Year Released 2004 1988
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5998 cc 1995 cc
Engine Type W in-line
Horse Power 450 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 560 Nm 184 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.2 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.9:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1995 kg 1250 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2670 mm