1972 Jaguar XJ vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Jaguar XJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Jaguar XJ would be higher. At 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1972 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Jaguar XJ (251 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 708 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 Jaguar XJ 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 1972 Jaguar XJ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1972 Jaguar XJ (408 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1972 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1972 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 Jaguar XJ 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Jaguar Volkswagen
Model XJ New Beetle
Year Released 1972 2007
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5344 cc 2501 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 251 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 408 Nm 231 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 90 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 70 mm 92.7 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1870 kg 1162 kg
Vehicle Length 4950 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2870 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 55 L