1978 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 23 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 2,606 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (64 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1295 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Ritmo | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ritmo | ML |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1301 cc | 2606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 83 L |
