1971 Alfa Romeo Junior vs. 1981 Datsun 280
To start off, 1981 Datsun 280 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Alfa Romeo Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Alfa Romeo Junior would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Datsun 280 (180 HP) has 94 more horse power than 1971 Alfa Romeo Junior. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1971 Alfa Romeo Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Datsun 280 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1971 Alfa Romeo Junior. 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. 1981 Datsun 280 has automatic transmission and 1971 Alfa Romeo Junior has manual transmission. 1971 Alfa Romeo Junior will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Datsun 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Alfa Romeo Junior | 1981 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | Junior | 280 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2530 mm |
