1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
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 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 10 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Datsun 280Z 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 280Z. 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 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 1978 Datsun 280Z 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 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
Model | 146 | 280Z |
Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4399 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1631 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2304 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |