1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 260Z is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Because 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 260Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 will offer significantly more control. 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. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 has manual transmission. 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | AR 51 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1884 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2581 mm |
