2003 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2003 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault 21 weights approximately 505 kg more than 2003 Donkervoort D8.
Because 2003 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 2003 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21, 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 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Donkervoort D8 | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Renault |
| Model | D8 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2760 mm |
