1978 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 780 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 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat Ritmo has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat Ritmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Ritmo | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ritmo | C |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
