2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri is newer by 23 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri weights approximately 111 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri (260 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | Centauri | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2304 mm |
