2003 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 is newer by 9 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 6 (272 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2003 Donkervoort D8. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 6 weights approximately 991 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, 2012 Mazda 6, 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, 2012 Mazda 6 (364 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Donkervoort D8. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Donkervoort D8. 2012 Mazda 6 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. 2012 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Donkervoort D8 | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Mazda |
| Model | D8 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2789 mm |
