2008 BMW 540 vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 541 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Because 2008 BMW 540 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 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lancia Thema. (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lancia Thema. 1986 Lancia Thema has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 540 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Lancia Thema will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 540 | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 540 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2849 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
