1986 Donkervoort S8 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1986 Donkervoort S8. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 665 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 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Donkervoort S8 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | S8 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1500 mm |
