2003 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 2003 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 25 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 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (73 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 192 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Fiat Barchetta (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Barchetta | 1978 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Barchetta | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 51 L |
