1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 1985 McLaren MP4
To start off, 1985 McLaren MP4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1981 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 McLaren MP4 (987 HP @ 11500 RPM) has 688 more horse power than 1981 Jaguar XJS. (299 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 McLaren MP4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Jaguar XJS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 1167 kg more than 1985 McLaren MP4.
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. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 1985 McLaren MP4 has manual transmission. 1985 McLaren MP4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Jaguar XJS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Jaguar XJS | 1985 McLaren MP4 | |
| Make | Jaguar | McLaren |
| Model | XJS | MP4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5344 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 299 HP | 987 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 11500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 540 kg |
