2004 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 Donkervoort D8. (177 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Donkervoort D8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1999 Donkervoort D8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 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, 2004 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Donkervoort D8. (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Donkervoort D8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1999 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Audi | Donkervoort |
| Model | A3 | D8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
