1978 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 161 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Because 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 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 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. 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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Ritmo | 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | Ritmo | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2750 mm |
