1958 Alpine A 106 vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 260Z is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1958 Alpine A 106. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1958 Alpine A 106. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 545 kg more than 1958 Alpine A 106. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1977 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Alpine A 106. (57 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Alpine A 106. 1977 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1958 Alpine A 106 has manual transmission. 1958 Alpine A 106 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Alpine A 106 | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Alpine | Datsun |
| Model | A 106 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 845 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 28 L | 60 L |
