1997 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 15 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Donkervoort D8. (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1997 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 965 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Donkervoort D8 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | D8 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2710 mm |
