1980 Alfa Romeo Alfasud vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1980 Alfa Romeo Alfasud is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1980 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. (84 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1980 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 357 kg more than 1980 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 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 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Alfa Romeo Alfasud, 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. (120 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Alfa Romeo Alfasud.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Alfa Romeo Alfasud | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | Alfasud | 280 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2530 mm |
