1959 Jaguar XK vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Jaguar XK (251 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Jaguar XK weights approximately 148 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra, 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, 1959 Jaguar XK (325 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1959 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Jaguar XK | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Jaguar | Opel |
| Model | XK | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3442 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1473 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2700 mm |
