1998 BMW 318 vs. 1981 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 17 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 415 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 1998 BMW 318 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 BMW 318. 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1981 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 318 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1049 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
