1997 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 11 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 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. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 1085 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, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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, 2008 Saturn Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Donkervoort D8 | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Saturn |
| Model | D8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
