1975 Jaguar XJS vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 5,342 cc (12 cylinders), 1975 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Jaguar XJS (291 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 310 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Jaguar XJS 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 1975 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3, 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, 1975 Jaguar XJS (431 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1975 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1975 Jaguar XJS has manual transmission. 1975 Jaguar XJS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Jaguar XJS | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Audi |
| Model | XJS | A3 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5342 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 431 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 86 L | 55 L |
