Lancia Thema I (Tipo 834) gallery (1984–1994)

The first generation of the Lancia Thema debuted at the 1984 Turin Motor Show, built upon the joint Tipo Four platform shared with the Fiat Croma, Alfa Romeo 164, and Saab 9000. It was offered primarily as a four-door executive saloon, while a distinctive five-door Station Wagon variant styled and manufactured by Pininfarina joined the range in 1986. Under the bonnet, the Thema offered a wide array of engines, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol units, a 2.85-litre PRV V6, and later a 3.0-litre Alfa Romeo Busso V6. The most celebrated enthusiast model was the Thema 8.32, equipped with a 2.9-litre 32-valve V8 derived from the Ferrari 308 Quattrovalvole. A 2.5-litre turbo-diesel was also available for high-mileage drivers. Gearbox options included a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. The model underwent two major facelifts in 1988 (Series 2) and 1992 (Series 3), bringing updated exterior styling, refined electronics, and lavish interior options such as Poltrona Frau leather and Alcantara. Thema was primarily marketed across Western Europe as an upscale executive car.