1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 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 171 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 142 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat, 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) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (335 Nm). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Jaguar XJS 2005 Volkswagen Passat
Make Jaguar Volkswagen
Model XJS Passat
Year Released 1981 2005
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5344 cc 1895 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 299 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 431 Nm 335 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.5:1 18.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1707 kg 1565 kg
Vehicle Length 4880 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 62 L