1979 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1980 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (135 HP) has 76 more horse power than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 741 kg more than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Pontiac Firebird 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 1980 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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. 1980 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat Ritmo has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat Ritmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat Ritmo | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | Ritmo | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 864 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2750 mm |
