1993 Donkervoort S8 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1993 Donkervoort S8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Donkervoort S8 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Donkervoort S8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 130 kg more than 1993 Donkervoort S8.
Because 1993 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 1993 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1993 Donkervoort S8 (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1993 Donkervoort S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1993 Donkervoort S8 has manual transmission. 1993 Donkervoort S8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Donkervoort S8 | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | S8 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
