1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1988 Lancia Thema is newer by 7 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, 1981 Jaguar XJS (299 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1988 Lancia Thema. (118 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1988 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 357 kg more than 1988 Lancia Thema. 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, 1988 Lancia Thema, 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. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 1988 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1988 Lancia Thema 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 | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Jaguar | Lancia |
| Model | XJS | Thema |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5344 cc | 2447 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 299 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |
