1996 Alfa Romeo GTV vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV is newer by 17 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV weights approximately 227 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV, 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV (275 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | GTV | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
