2003 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Donkervoort D8 (177 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 665 kg more than 1999 Donkervoort D8.
Because 1999 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 1999 Donkervoort D8. 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, 2003 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Donkervoort D8. (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1999 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Audi | Donkervoort |
| Model | A3 | D8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
