2008 Nissan 350Z vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo

To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 30 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (73 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 670 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 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 2008 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. 1978 Fiat Ritmo has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat Ritmo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Nissan 350Z 1978 Fiat Ritmo
Make Nissan Fiat
Model 350Z Ritmo
Year Released 2008 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3496 cc 1498 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 306 HP 73 HP
Engine RPM 6800 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 363 Nm 118 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.6:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1540 kg 870 kg
Vehicle Length 4320 mm 3940 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2430 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 76 L 51 L