1992 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 1992 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Donkervoort D8 (212 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Saab 900 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1992 Donkervoort D8.
Because 1992 Donkervoort D8 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 1992 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Saab 900, 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, 1992 Donkervoort D8 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1992 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Donkervoort D8 | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Saab |
| Model | D8 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2530 mm |
