1985 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 1985 Fiat Ritmo. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1200 kg more than 1985 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 444 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Fiat Ritmo. (86 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Fiat Ritmo | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ritmo | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 87 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 | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3090 mm |
