2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1972 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 482 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Datsun 240Z 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 1972 Datsun 240Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1972 Datsun 240Z has manual transmission. 1972 Datsun 240Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | 166 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
