1989 Donkervoort S8 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 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, 1989 Donkervoort S8 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Donkervoort S8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 430 kg more than 1989 Donkervoort S8.
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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1989 Donkervoort S8 (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1989 Donkervoort S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Donkervoort S8 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | S8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1450 mm |
