1997 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Donkervoort D8 (138 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 Donkervoort D8.
Because 1997 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 1997 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Donkervoort D8 (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Donkervoort D8 | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2560 mm |
