1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1981 Jaguar XJS is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1981 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Jaguar XJS (299 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 907 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Jaguar XJS 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 1981 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Jaguar XJS | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
Model | XJS | Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 1959 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5344 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 299 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |