2004 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Donkervoort S8 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Donkervoort S8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 665 kg more than 1985 Donkervoort S8.
Because 1985 Donkervoort S8 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 1985 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, 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 Audi A3 (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1985 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Donkervoort |
| Model | A3 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
