1998 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Donkervoort D8 (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 643 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 Volkswagen Beetle (175 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Donkervoort D8 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2537 mm |
