1988 Donkervoort S8 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 2152 kg more than 1988 Donkervoort S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Donkervoort S8 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 678 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1600 mm |
