1997 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2001 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2001 Skoda Octavia is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Skoda Octavia (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Donkervoort D8. (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1997 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 675 kg more than 1997 Donkervoort D8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2001 Skoda Octavia (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2001 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Donkervoort D8 | 2001 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Skoda |
| Model | D8 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
