1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 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 199 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 501 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New 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, 1999 Volkswagen New 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. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Jaguar XJS (431 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Jaguar XJS | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
Model | XJS | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5344 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 299 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 431 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 45 L |