1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 307 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun Laurel 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 1979 Datsun Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Datsun | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Laurel | 166 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 72 L |
