1994 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 13 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1994 Donkervoort D8. (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1994 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 581 kg more than 1994 Donkervoort D8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Donkervoort D8 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
