1978 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 31 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (73 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 515 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Ritmo | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | Ritmo | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 52 L |
