1978 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 532 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (73 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1960 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 882 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (118 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Fiat Ritmo 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Fiat Mercedes-Benz
Model Ritmo SL
Year Released 1978 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1498 cc 5980 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 73 HP 605 HP
Torque 118 Nm 1000 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 870 kg 2830 kg
Vehicle Length 3940 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1660 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 51 L 80 L