2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 1981 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (222 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Nissan |
| Model | 159 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
