1958 Jaguar XK vs. 1961 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1961 Volkswagen 1500 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Jaguar XK (208 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Jaguar XK weights approximately 540 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Jaguar XK | 1961 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3442 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |
