1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1985 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 115 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 525 kg more than 1985 Donkervoort S8.
Because 1985 Donkervoort S8 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 1985 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Donkervoort S8. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1985 Donkervoort S8 has manual transmission. 1985 Donkervoort S8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1985 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Donkervoort |
| Model | Cavalier | S8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1110 mm |
