2004 BMW 118 vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2004 BMW 118 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 (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2004 BMW 118. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 118 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1988 Lancia Thema.
Because 2004 BMW 118 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 2004 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2004 BMW 118 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 118 | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 118 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.2:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
