2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1981 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 19 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 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 375 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 2000 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 2000 BMW Z3. 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. 2000 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat Ritmo has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat Ritmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1981 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | Z3 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 57 L |
