1957 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1978 Fiat Ritmo is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,639 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Austin-Healey 100 (101 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Austin-Healey 100 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1957 Austin-Healey 100 (143 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1957 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Austin-Healey 100 | 1978 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Fiat |
| Model | 100 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2639 cc | 1049 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2460 mm |
