1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 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 149 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2007 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 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJS | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5344 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 299 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 431 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
