1981 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Ritmo | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Fiat | BMW |
| Model | Ritmo | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |
