2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 313 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 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | 156 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 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 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2530 mm |
