1948 Jaguar XK vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 65 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1948 Jaguar XK. (160 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1948 Jaguar XK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 40 kg more than 1948 Jaguar XK. 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Jaguar XK. (264 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Jaguar XK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Jaguar XK | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | GTI |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3442 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1372 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
