1992 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (150 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1992 Donkervoort D8. (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1992 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 558 kg more than 1992 Donkervoort D8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (202 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Donkervoort D8 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
