1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 19 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 248 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. 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, 1998 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (226 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
Model | 166 | 280 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2751 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 226 Nm | 202 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1272 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |