1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2006 Jaguar XK8
To start off, 2006 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 4,194 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Jaguar XK8 (294 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 544 kg more than 1974 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Jaguar XK8 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 2006 Jaguar XK8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800, 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, 2006 Jaguar XK8 (411 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 2006 Jaguar XK8 | |
| Make | Austin | Jaguar |
| Model | 1800 | XK8 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 4194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 294 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 411 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1734 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 75 L |
