1979 Ferrari 312 vs. 2012 Jaguar XJ
To start off, 2012 Jaguar XJ is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jaguar XJ (510 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1979 Ferrari 312. (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1979 Ferrari 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 1337 kg more than 1979 Ferrari 312. 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. 2012 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 1979 Ferrari 312 has manual transmission. 1979 Ferrari 312 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 312 | 2012 Jaguar XJ | |
| Make | Ferrari | Jaguar |
| Model | 312 | XJ |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 508 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5127 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2130 mm | 1895 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1456 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3032 mm |
