2004 Kia Optima vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima 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 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 237 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.
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 Kia Optima (245 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (184 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Kia | Lancia |
| Model | Optima | Thema |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
