2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 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 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 362 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z. 1972 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | 156 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
