2002 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 78 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 180 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, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Donkervoort D8 | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
