1979 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 29 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (511 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 458 more horse power than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. (53 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1000 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 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 622 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat Ritmo | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ritmo | SL |
Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1714 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 511 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 98 Nm | 720 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |