1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1998 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 1998 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1998 Donkervoort D8. (138 HP @ 6750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1998 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 731 kg more than 1998 Donkervoort D8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1998 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Donkervoort |
| Model | Spider | D8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2310 mm |
