2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
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 Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun Laurel 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 Laurel. 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 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | 156 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
