1983 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 396 more horse power than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. (98 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 970 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 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 569 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. (131 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ritmo | SL |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1568 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 905 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
