2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1975 Datsun 260Z

To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1975 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1975 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 1975 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 260Z. 1975 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Alfa Romeo 159 1975 Datsun 260Z
Make Alfa Romeo Datsun
Model 159 260Z
Year Released 2005 1975
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2197 cc 2565 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 182 HP 163 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 213 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 94.6 mm 79 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.3:1 8.3:1
Top Speed 222 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 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1100 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4135 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2310 mm
Fuel Consumption 7.3 L/100km 8.4 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 13 L/100km 12 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 60 L