1981 BMW 745 vs. 2002 Jaguar XK8
To start off, 2002 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Jaguar XK8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 BMW 745. (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 745. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 144 kg more than 1981 BMW 745. 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, 2002 Jaguar XK8 (420 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 745. (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 745. 2002 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 745 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 745 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 745 | 2002 Jaguar XK8 | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | 745 | XK8 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1734 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 75 L |
