2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1986 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1986 Donkervoort S8. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1986 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 805 kg more than 1986 Donkervoort S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1986 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Donkervoort |
| Model | 159 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1110 mm |
