1998 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1998 Donkervoort D8. (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 806 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, 2012 Audi A3, 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 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Donkervoort D8 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
Make | Donkervoort | Audi |
Model | D8 | A3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |