1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Seat Ritmo
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Seat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Seat Ritmo would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1980 Seat Ritmo. (53 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Seat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 846 kg more than 1980 Seat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Seat 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 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Seat Ritmo. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Seat Ritmo. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1980 Seat Ritmo has manual transmission. 1980 Seat Ritmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Seat Ritmo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Seat |
| Model | S | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1806 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2460 mm |
