1987 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 1987 Fiat Ritmo. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1987 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 655 kg more than 1987 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (450 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 363 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Fiat Ritmo. (87 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Fiat Ritmo | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ritmo | SLK |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
