2009 BMW 320 vs. 1988 Lancia Thema

To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 21 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. Both 2009 BMW 320 and 1988 Lancia Thema are equipped with a 1,995 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 135 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 2009 BMW 320 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 2009 BMW 320. 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, 2009 BMW 320 (351 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lancia Thema. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lancia Thema. 2009 BMW 320 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. 2009 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 320 1988 Lancia Thema
Make BMW Lancia
Model 320 Thema
Year Released 2009 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 351 Nm 184 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4000 RPM
Top Speed 230 km/hour 204 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 5.6 seconds 9.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 1250 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2670 mm