Segment:
Executive sedan, luxury class during its production run.
Positioning:
Competed with established German luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW, offering Italian flair, advanced technology (for its era), and distinctive design.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, BMW E34 5 Series, Audi V8 Quattro.
Design:
Penned by Pininfarina, known for its elegant and understated styling.
Platform:
Shared platform with Alfa Romeo 164, Fiat Croma, and Saab 9000, highlighting a period of Fiat Group consolidation and collaboration.
Powertrain Options:
Wide range of engines including Fiat's Twin Cam, Lampredi Twin Cam, and the iconic Lancia V6 engines, as well as turbodiesel options.
Geographic Coverage:
Primarily German market, but applicable to all Thema models within the specified years due to factory standardization.
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but indicative of comprehensive coverage).
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Licensing Terms:
Lifetime use, no expiry dates, no renewal fees, usable on multiple devices and computers.
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, exhaust system.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, parking brake), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, infotainment (basic), body electronics, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, body sealing, crash structures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.
Special Procedures:
Timing belt replacement, fuel injection system servicing, turbocharger maintenance (for relevant models), A/C system servicing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to complete vehicle overhauls and complex diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Documentation Style:
Step-by-step instructions with detailed photos and exploded diagrams for clarity and accuracy.
Compatibility:
Compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick access to specific information.
Printable:
Allows printing of individual pages or the entire manual.
Digital Binding:
Not applicable as it's a digital download.
Digital Medium:
Digital PDF document.
Engine Code Examples:
e.g., 832A.040 (2.0 Turbo), 832B.040 (2.0 V6 Turbo), 832D.040 (3.0 V6).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 115 hp (2.0 naturally aspirated) to over 200 hp (2.0 Turbo and V6 Turbo).
Torque Range:
Varies significantly based on engine. Turbocharged variants offered substantial torque for their era.
Injection Systems:
Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic, Weber-MarellI fuel injection systems, as well as Zenith/Solex carburetors on early 2.0 models.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water). Specific Lancia or Fiat recommended coolant should be consulted in the manual.
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition with distributor (most models) or distributorless ignition systems on later variants.
Type:
5-speed manual transmission.
Type:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF or JATCO depending on engine and market).
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type required. Manual gearbox oil specifications would also be detailed.
Type:
Hydraulically operated dry single-plate clutch for manual transmissions.
Length:
Approx. 4570 mm (179.9 in).
Width:
Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 in).
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in).
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approx. 1300 kg to 1500 kg depending on engine and specification.
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Specific GVWR would be detailed in the manual based on model and market.
Crash Test Data:
Data from the era is limited by modern standards. The manual would detail structural integrity and any safety features available.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated fronts on most models). ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) became available on higher trims and later models.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts. Pretensioners may have been optional or standard on later models.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag became available as an option or standard on higher trims in the later years of production (post-facelift).
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette players, often with premium options from Blaupunkt or Clarion. Speaker configurations vary.
ABS:
Available as an option on higher trims and later models, typically manufactured by Bosch or Lucas.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models, particularly for longer-distance touring.
Early Electronics:
Features like central locking, electric windows, and electrically adjustable mirrors were advanced for their time and are covered in detail.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Timing Belt:
Critical maintenance item. Intervals vary by engine, but commonly around 60,000 to 90,000 km or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Manual will provide exact intervals and procedures.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3. Viscosity grades like 10W-40 or 15W-50 are common. Check manual for specific Lancia approvals and viscosity based on climate.
Coolant:
50/50 mix of quality coolant (e.g., G11 type) and distilled water. Lancia/Fiat specific coolant recommended if available.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Replacement every 2 years recommended due to hygroscopic nature.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common in older Italian cars, can include intermittent dashboard lights, power window issues, or sensor failures.
Rust:
Can be an issue on older vehicles, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the boot lid. Good maintenance and rust prevention are key.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, leading to noise and handling issues. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Thermo Time Switch:
Failure on some L-Jetronic systems can affect cold starting.
Brand Legacy:
Lancia boasts a rich motorsport heritage and a history of producing luxurious and technically advanced road cars, known for their distinctive character.
Facelift:
The Thema underwent a significant facelift in 1988, which included updated styling, revised interior, and improved features, including optional airbags and ABS.
Manufacturing Location:
Produced at the Mirafiori plant in Turin, Italy.
Production Volume:
Produced in significant numbers globally, though precise figures are not readily available without specific research.
European Car Of The Year:
While the Thema itself did not win European Car of the Year, Lancia's models often received critical acclaim for innovation and design, and the Thema was a significant product for the brand during this period.
Press Reviews:
Often praised for its comfortable ride, powerful engines (especially the V6 and turbo variants), and refined interior compared to many competitors of its era. The manual provides the technical foundation for maintaining these attributes.
