2006 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 18 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 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 505 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 2006 BMW M3 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 2006 BMW M3. 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | M3 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |
