2008 BMW 523 vs. 1993 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1993 Lancia Thema. (116 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1993 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Lancia Thema (255 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1993 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1993 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 523 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
