1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 21 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 59 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 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:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | 146 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.3 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.9 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
