2003 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2003 Donkervoort D8. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 735 kg more than 2003 Donkervoort D8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Opel Astra, 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, 2004 Opel Astra (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Donkervoort D8. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Donkervoort D8 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Opel |
| Model | D8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2640 mm |
