1959 Jaguar MK II vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jaguar MK II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jaguar MK II would be higher. At 2,483 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Jaguar MK II is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1959 Jaguar MK II. (120 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1959 Jaguar MK II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Jaguar MK II weights approximately 145 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1959 Jaguar MK II 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 1959 Jaguar MK II. 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, both vehicles can yield 195 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Jaguar MK II | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK II | Golf |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2483 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
