1981 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 434 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 835 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 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 719 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Ritmo | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ritmo | SL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
