2003 Donkervoort D8 vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Signum would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Opel Signum. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Signum weights approximately 850 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, 1998 Opel Signum, 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Signum. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Donkervoort D8 | 1998 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Opel |
| Model | D8 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2740 mm |
