1989 Donkervoort S8 vs. 1995 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1995 Lotus Elan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1989 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Elan weights approximately 345 kg more than 1989 Donkervoort S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan, 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, 1995 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Donkervoort S8 | 1995 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Donkervoort | Lotus |
Model | S8 | Elan |
Year Released | 1989 | 1995 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1992 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 166 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1240 mm |