1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 1998 Acura EL

To start off, 1998 Acura EL is newer by 17 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 172 more horse power than 1998 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 628 kg more than 1998 Acura EL. 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, 1998 Acura EL, 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, 1981 Jaguar XJS (431 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura EL. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 1998 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1998 Acura EL 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 1998 Acura EL
Make Jaguar Acura
Model XJS EL
Year Released 1981 1998
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5344 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 299 HP 127 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 431 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 5500 RPM
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 1079 kg
Vehicle Length 4880 mm 4478 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1704 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1394 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2619 mm