2009 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 765 kg more than 2001 Donkervoort D8.
Because 2001 Donkervoort D8 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 2001 Donkervoort D8. 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, 2001 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2001 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Audi | Donkervoort |
| Model | A3 | D8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
