2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
Model | 156 | 280 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 385 Nm | 202 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 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 | 1510 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2330 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |