1983 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 19 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), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. (57 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 975 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. (105 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat Ritmo | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ritmo | S |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1714 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3090 mm |
