2004 Chrysler 300 vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo

To start off, 2004 Chrysler 300 is newer by 26 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 6,057 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler 300 (425 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 366 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 1028 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 2004 Chrysler 300 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 2004 Chrysler 300. 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, 2004 Chrysler 300 (569 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 488 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. 2004 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat Ritmo has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat Ritmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Chrysler 300 1978 Fiat Ritmo
Make Chrysler Fiat
Model 300 Ritmo
Year Released 2004 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6057 cc 1049 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 425 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 569 Nm 81 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 103 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.9 mm 55.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 9.2:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1888 kg 860 kg
Vehicle Length 5010 mm 3940 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 3050 mm 2460 mm