1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 20 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 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 40 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
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, 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (260 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
Model | 146 | 280 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 260 Nm | 202 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2330 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |