1955 Abarth 209 vs. 1981 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 1981 Jaguar XJS is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 209. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 209 would be higher. At 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1981 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Jaguar XJS (299 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1955 Abarth 209. (65 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1955 Abarth 209. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 1097 kg more than 1955 Abarth 209. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 1955 Abarth 209 has manual transmission. 1955 Abarth 209 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Jaguar XJS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Abarth 209 | 1981 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Abarth | Jaguar |
| Model | 209 | XJS |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1087 cc | 5344 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 299 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1707 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 90 L |
