1998 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1974 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1998 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,388 cc, 1974 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Donkervoort D8 (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1974 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1974 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 556 kg more than 1998 Donkervoort D8.
Because 1998 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 1998 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 NSU Ro 80, 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, 1998 Donkervoort D8 (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 NSU Ro 80. 1974 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1998 Donkervoort D8 has manual transmission. 1998 Donkervoort D8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Donkervoort D8 | 1974 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | NSU |
| Model | D8 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2388 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2860 mm |
