2009 BMW 523 vs. 1985 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Lancia Thema (212 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1985 Lancia Thema.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Lancia Thema (290 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 1985 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 523 | Thema |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2927 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
