1978 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-3 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 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 199 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 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Ritmo | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Ritmo | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2460 mm |
