1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1999 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 1999 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 2 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, 1999 Donkervoort D8 (177 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 755 kg more than 1999 Donkervoort D8.
Because 1999 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 1999 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, 1999 Donkervoort D8 (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1999 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Donkervoort |
| Model | Spider | D8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 630 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 |
