1988 Donkervoort S8 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 712 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, 2011 Mazda 3, 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Donkervoort S8 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Mazda |
| Model | S8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 678 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1471 mm |
