2003 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 3 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 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP) has 85 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForFour. (63 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart ForFour weights approximately 336 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, 2006 Smart ForFour, 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 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForFour. (92 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForFour. 2006 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 2003 Donkervoort D8 has manual transmission. 2003 Donkervoort D8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Donkervoort D8 | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Smart |
| Model | D8 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 63 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
