2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 138 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Because 1974 Datsun 260Z 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 1974 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 1974 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | 156 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
