1994 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 18 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1994 Donkervoort D8. (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1994 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 751 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Donkervoort D8 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |
