2008 Cadillac DTS vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2008 Cadillac DTS 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 305 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema. 2008 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1988 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1988 Lancia Thema will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac DTS | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Cadillac | Lancia |
| Model | DTS | Thema |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2670 mm |
