2008 BMW 318 vs. 1994 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lancia Thema (153 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 218 kg more than 1994 Lancia Thema.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 2008 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 2008 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lancia Thema. (178 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1994 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 318 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
