1987 Donkervoort S8 vs. 2004 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2004 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Vel Satis (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1987 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1987 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 1060 kg more than 1987 Donkervoort S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Renault Vel Satis, 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 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Donkervoort S8. 2004 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1987 Donkervoort S8 has manual transmission. 1987 Donkervoort S8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Donkervoort S8 | 2004 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Renault |
| Model | S8 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1580 mm |
