1955 Fiat 1100 vs. 1981 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1981 Fiat Ritmo is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fiat 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fiat 1100 would be higher. At 1,089 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Fiat 1100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat Ritmo (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1955 Fiat 1100. (49 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Ritmo should accelerate faster than 1955 Fiat 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat Ritmo weights approximately 55 kg more than 1955 Fiat 1100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Fiat 1100 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 1955 Fiat 1100. 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, 1981 Fiat Ritmo (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Fiat 1100. (73 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat Ritmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Fiat 1100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Fiat 1100 | 1981 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 1100 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1089 cc | 1049 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2460 mm |
