1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 2001 Smart ForFour

To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour is newer by 20 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 225 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForFour. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 742 kg more than 2001 Smart ForFour. 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, 2001 Smart ForFour, 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 331 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart ForFour. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart ForFour. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart ForFour has manual transmission. 2001 Smart ForFour 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 2001 Smart ForFour
Make Jaguar Smart
Model XJS ForFour
Year Released 1981 2001
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5344 cc 1124 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 299 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 431 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 12.5:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 240 km/hour 165 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1707 kg 965 kg
Vehicle Length 4880 mm 3760 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2510 mm