2003 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 22 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 525 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 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1981 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | M3 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1049 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
