2009 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 880 kg more than 1999 Donkervoort D8.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Donkervoort D8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Donkervoort D8. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Donkervoort D8. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Donkervoort D8 has manual transmission. 1999 Donkervoort D8 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 | 1999 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Audi | Donkervoort |
| Model | A3 | D8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
