1952 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1981 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1981 Fiat Ritmo is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1952 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Austin-Healey 100 (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Austin-Healey 100 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 Austin-Healey 100 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 1952 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Ritmo, 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, 1952 Austin-Healey 100 (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1952 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Austin-Healey 100 | 1981 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Fiat |
| Model | 100 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1049 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2460 mm |
