2009 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1988 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 21 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1988 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 672 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1988 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Donkervoort |
| Model | 147 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 678 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1110 mm |
