2001 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 205 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, 1988 Volkswagen Golf, 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 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Donkervoort D8 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2340 mm |
