2001 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2008 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2008 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 1235 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, 2008 Renault Vel Satis, 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, 2008 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Donkervoort D8. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Donkervoort D8 | 2008 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Renault |
| Model | D8 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2850 mm |
