1952 Jaguar XK vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 60 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1952 Jaguar XK. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1952 Jaguar XK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 51 kg more than 1952 Jaguar XK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1952 Jaguar XK (290 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1952 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Jaguar XK | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | Golf |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
