1985 Donkervoort S8 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1985 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1985 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 567 kg more than 1985 Donkervoort S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Ford Contour, 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, 1997 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Donkervoort S8 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Ford |
| Model | S8 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 1987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1400 mm |
