1989 BMW Z1 vs. 1981 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1989 BMW Z1 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW Z1 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW Z1 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 1989 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1989 BMW Z1 (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 1981 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | Z1 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
