1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1977 Datsun 280
To start off, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280 (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280.
Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1977 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | 164 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 71 L |
