1999 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 13 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1999 Donkervoort D8. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1999 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 768 kg more than 1999 Donkervoort D8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Donkervoort D8. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Donkervoort D8. 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Donkervoort D8 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |
