1979 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 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 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. (53 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 430 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 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat Ritmo | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | Ritmo | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1714 cc | 2615 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 98 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |