1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 22 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 123 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (176 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 117 kg more than 2003 Opel Vectra. 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, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Vectra 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 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Jaguar | Opel |
| Model | XJS | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5344 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 299 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 431 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1510 mm |
