1948 Jaguar XK vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1948 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Jaguar XK (160 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Jaguar XK weights approximately 472 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Jaguar XK 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 1948 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1948 Jaguar XK (264 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (82 Nm). This means 1948 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Jaguar XK | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | Golf |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3442 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1372 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
