1981 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 680 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 419 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat Ritmo has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat Ritmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat Ritmo | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ritmo | SLK |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1049 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 355 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 81 Nm | 500 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2440 mm |