1994 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Donkervoort D8 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 80 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 470 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1994 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1994 Donkervoort D8 has manual transmission. 1994 Donkervoort D8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Donkervoort D8 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | D8 | A |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
