2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,146 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 880 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Donkervoort S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1988 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Donkervoort |
| Model | PT Cruiser | S8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2146 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 678 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1110 mm |
