2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1998 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1998 Donkervoort D8. (138 HP @ 6750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Donkervoort D8 weights approximately 154 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Donkervoort D8. (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1998 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Caterham | Donkervoort |
| Model | 7 | D8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2310 mm |
