2001 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 23 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (64 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 690 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 2001 BMW M3 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 2001 BMW M3. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (330 Nm) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (98 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1978 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | M3 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
