1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1978 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | Z3 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1049 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
