1986 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1986 Alfa Romeo 33 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 260Z 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 85 more horse power than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 188 kg more than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Datsun 260Z 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 1978 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Alfa Romeo 33, 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. (111 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1986 Alfa Romeo 33 has manual transmission. 1986 Alfa Romeo 33 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:
| 1986 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | 33 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
