1983 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1212 kg more than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. (86 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat Ritmo | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ritmo | E |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
