2003 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 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 @ 5700 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 684 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Donkervoort D8. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Donkervoort D8 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
| Model | D8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |
