1978 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2004 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 26 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 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (64 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 520 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 2004 Lotus Esprit 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 2004 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2004 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (98 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Ritmo | 2004 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Ritmo | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1301 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
