2003 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Donkervoort S8 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Donkervoort S8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1985 Donkervoort S8.
Because 1985 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 1985 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3, 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, 1985 Donkervoort S8 (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Donkervoort S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1985 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Donkervoort |
| Model | A3 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| 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 | 113 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
