2002 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Renault 12 weights approximately 281 kg more than 2002 Donkervoort D8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Renault 12, 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, 2002 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Donkervoort D8 | 1972 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Renault |
| Model | D8 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2440 mm |
