1994 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 15 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1994 Donkervoort D8. (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 700 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, 2009 Audi A3, 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, 2009 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Donkervoort D8. 2009 Audi A3 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. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Donkervoort D8 | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Audi |
| Model | D8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2580 mm |
