1981 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 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 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat Ritmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 488 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 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (131 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Ritmo | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Ritmo | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1428 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
