1979 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 27 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. (53 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1494 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat Ritmo | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ritmo | GL |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1714 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 2454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3080 mm |
