1997 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Donkervoort D8 (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 565 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf, 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Donkervoort D8 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2590 mm |
