2008 BMW 550 vs. 1984 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (362 HP) has 262 more horse power than 1984 Lancia Thema. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1984 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1984 Lancia Thema. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 550 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 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lancia Thema. (221 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1984 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 550 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2445 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 491 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2300 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
