2002 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 480 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, 1998 Mazda 323, 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2002 Donkervoort D8 has manual transmission. 2002 Donkervoort D8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Donkervoort D8 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Mazda |
| Model | D8 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
