1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2012 Jaguar XJ
To start off, 2012 Jaguar XJ is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jaguar XJ (385 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 504 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Jaguar XJ (515 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 260 | 2012 Jaguar XJ | |
| Make | Volvo | Jaguar |
| Model | 260 | XJ |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 385 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 515 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1874 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 5252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1895 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1456 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3157 mm |
