1985 Donkervoort S8 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 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, 1985 Donkervoort S8 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Donkervoort S8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 656 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Donkervoort S8 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | S8 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1510 mm |
