1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1978 Fiat Ritmo is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,098 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat Ritmo weights approximately 146 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. 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, 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1978 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Fiat |
| Model | Sprite | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1049 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2460 mm |
