2008 BMW 525 vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 20 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (185 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 190 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 2008 BMW 525 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 525. 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 525 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
