1985 Donkervoort S8 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1985 Donkervoort S8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Donkervoort S8 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Donkervoort S8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Renault 12 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1985 Donkervoort S8.
Because 1985 Donkervoort S8 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 1985 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Renault 12, 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, 1985 Donkervoort S8 (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Donkervoort S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Donkervoort S8 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Renault |
| Model | S8 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1440 mm |
