1959 Maserati 420 vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1978 Fiat Ritmo is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Maserati 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Maserati 420 would be higher. At 4,190 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Maserati 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Maserati 420 (405 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 332 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (73 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Maserati 420 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Maserati 420 weights approximately 305 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 1959 Maserati 420 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 1959 Maserati 420. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Maserati 420 | 1978 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | Maserati | Fiat |
| Model | 420 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4190 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 405 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
