2009 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 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 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 352 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 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Donkervoort S8. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Donkervoort S8 has manual transmission. 1988 Donkervoort S8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1988 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Donkervoort |
| Model | A3 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 678 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
