2007 Cadillac XLR vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo

To start off, 2007 Cadillac XLR is newer by 29 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Cadillac XLR (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (73 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 784 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 2007 Cadillac XLR 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 2007 Cadillac XLR. 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, 2007 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. 2007 Cadillac XLR 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. 2007 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Cadillac XLR 1978 Fiat Ritmo
Make Cadillac Fiat
Model XLR Ritmo
Year Released 2007 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4565 cc 1498 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 320 HP 73 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 420 Nm 118 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1654 kg 870 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 3940 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2430 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 51 L