2003 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1996 Proton 300
To start off, 2003 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 300 would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1996 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton 300 weights approximately 405 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, 1996 Proton 300, 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Donkervoort D8 | 1996 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Proton |
| Model | D8 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2450 mm |
