1986 Donkervoort S8 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1986 Donkervoort S8. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 465 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Donkervoort S8 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Mazda |
| Model | S8 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1840 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 | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1640 mm |
