1998 BMW 323 vs. 1981 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 450 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 323 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 323. 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 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1981 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 323 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 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 | 169 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
