1979 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Jaguar XJ
To start off, 2008 Jaguar XJ is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Honda Civic would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jaguar XJ (300 HP) has 233 more horse power than 1979 Honda Civic. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1979 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 889 kg more than 1979 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Jaguar XJ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Honda Civic, 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, 2008 Jaguar XJ (420 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Honda Civic. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Honda Civic. 2008 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 1979 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1979 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Honda Civic | 2008 Jaguar XJ | |
| Make | Honda | Jaguar |
| Model | Civic | XJ |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1335 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 300 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2110 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 85 L |
