1973 Jaguar XJ vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Jaguar XJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Jaguar XJ would be higher. At 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1973 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 407 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.

Because 1973 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 1973 Jaguar XJ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1973 Jaguar XJ (409 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1973 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 1973 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Jaguar XJ 2008 Volkswagen Passat
Make Jaguar Volkswagen
Model XJ Passat
Year Released 1973 2008
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5344 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 251 HP 0 HP
Torque 409 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 90 mm 79.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 70 mm 95.5 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1835 kg 1428 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4770 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 70 L