2004 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 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 580 kg more than 2001 Donkervoort D8.
Because 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2001 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Audi | Donkervoort |
| Model | A3 | D8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2310 mm |
