1983 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (229 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. (129 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 585 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. (180 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat Ritmo | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ritmo | C |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
