1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Jaguar XK
To start off, 2003 Jaguar XK is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jaguar XK (390 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 307 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jaguar XK weights approximately 935 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2003 Jaguar XK (525 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 396 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2003 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Ford | Jaguar |
| Model | Fiesta | XK |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 525 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 75 L |
