2004 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Donkervoort D8 (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1997 Donkervoort D8.
Because 1997 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 1997 Donkervoort D8. 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, 1997 Donkervoort D8 (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Donkervoort D8 has manual transmission. 1997 Donkervoort D8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1997 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Audi | Donkervoort |
| Model | A3 | D8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2310 mm |
