1985 Donkervoort S8 vs. 1980 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1985 Donkervoort S8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Kadett 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 24 more horse power than 1980 Opel Kadett. (91 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Donkervoort S8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Opel Kadett weights approximately 275 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, 1980 Opel Kadett, 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Kadett. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Donkervoort S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Donkervoort S8 | 1980 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Opel |
| Model | S8 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1390 mm |
