1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 31 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, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1981 Jaguar XJS. (299 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Jaguar XJS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 72 kg more than 2012 Audi R8.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Jaguar XJS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi R8. (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi R8. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi R8 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 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Audi |
| Model | XJS | R8 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5344 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 299 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 431 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
