Japan vs Japan — 1963 vs 1981
| Bellett 1600 GT-R | Piazza Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 120 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 108 lb-ft | 166 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,584 cc | 1,949 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 8.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.3 sec | 16.3 sec |
| Weight | 1,962 lbs | 2,579 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,350 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 3,960 mm | 4,350 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 113,419 |
| Value (Excellent) | $60,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1963 Isuzu Bellett 1600 GT-R brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1981 Isuzu Piazza Turbo answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Isuzu has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1963 Isuzu Bellett 1600 GT-R with the 1981 Isuzu Piazza Turbo highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1981 Isuzu Piazza Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 120 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Isuzu Bellett uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,584 cc, while the Isuzu Piazza Turbo relies on a Inline-4, DOHC Turbo with 1,949 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Isuzu Piazza Turbo edges ahead at 8.2 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Isuzu Bellett carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 617 lbs lighter. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1963 Isuzu Bellett 1600 GT-R rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.