1999 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 605 kg more than 1999 Donkervoort D8.
Because 1999 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 1999 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1999 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1999 Donkervoort D8 has manual transmission. 1999 Donkervoort D8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Donkervoort D8 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
