2001 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1971 Saab 99
To start off, 2001 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,853 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1971 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1971 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Saab 99 weights approximately 495 kg more than 2001 Donkervoort D8.
Because 2001 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 2001 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Saab 99, 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, 2001 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Donkervoort D8 | 1971 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Saab |
| Model | D8 | 99 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1853 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2480 mm |
