2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1989 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1989 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1989 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 665 kg more than 1989 Donkervoort S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Donkervoort S8 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 1989 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1989 Donkervoort S8 (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 Donkervoort S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1989 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Donkervoort |
| Model | 156 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1110 mm |
