1994 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1994 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Donkervoort D8 (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1994 Donkervoort D8.
Because 1994 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 1994 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 1994 Donkervoort D8 (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Donkervoort D8 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Renault |
| Model | D8 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2450 mm |
