2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 34 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | 159 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
