1978 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 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 1,308 cc, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Ritmo | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Ritmo | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
