1957 Jaguar XK vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,440 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Jaguar XK (208 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Jaguar XK weights approximately 263 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1957 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 1957 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1957 Jaguar XK (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1957 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1957 Jaguar XK 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make Jaguar Volkswagen
Model XK Golf
Year Released 1957 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3440 cc 1595 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 208 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 310 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1473 kg 1210 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 55 L