2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1988 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1988 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 937 kg more than 1988 Donkervoort S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1988 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Donkervoort |
| Model | 159 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 678 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1110 mm |
