1998 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 1998 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 Donkervoort D8. (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1998 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 666 kg more than 1998 Donkervoort D8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1988 Saab 9000, 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Donkervoort D8 | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Saab |
| Model | D8 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2670 mm |
