2003 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (97 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 595 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 Renault Megane, 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (201 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Donkervoort D8 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Renault |
| Model | D8 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2590 mm |
