1981 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Jaguar XK
To start off, 2009 Jaguar XK is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jaguar XK (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jaguar XK weights approximately 666 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Jaguar XK 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 2009 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Escort, 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, 2009 Jaguar XK (420 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2009 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Ford | Jaguar |
| Model | Escort | XK |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2760 mm |
