1986 Donkervoort S8 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1986 Donkervoort S8. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1986 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 1275 kg more than 1986 Donkervoort S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION, 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Donkervoort S8 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Saturn |
| Model | S8 | ION |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1460 mm |
