2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 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 12 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 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:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | 156 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
