1978 Ford Mustang vs. 2004 Jaguar XK
To start off, 2004 Jaguar XK is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,193 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Jaguar XK (390 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Jaguar XK weights approximately 648 kg more than 1978 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Jaguar XK (541 Nm) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm). This means 2004 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Mustang | 2004 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Ford | Jaguar |
| Model | Mustang | XK |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 4193 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 541 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1833 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2590 mm |
