1988 Donkervoort S8 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 24 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1389 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, 2012 Ford Explorer, 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Donkervoort S8. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1988 Donkervoort S8 has manual transmission. 1988 Donkervoort S8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Donkervoort S8 2012 Ford Explorer
Make Donkervoort Ford
Model S8 Explorer
Year Released 1988 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1993 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 115 HP 290 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 166 Nm 345 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Vehicle Weight 678 kg 2067 kg
Vehicle Length 3610 mm 5006 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 2004 mm
Vehicle Height 1110 mm 1788 mm