1978 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1998 Ford Laser
To start off, 1998 Ford Laser is newer by 20 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Laser (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (73 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 245 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Ford Laser (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Ritmo | 1998 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | Ritmo | Laser |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
