1983 Jaguar XJS vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1983 Jaguar XJS. (226 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Jaguar XJS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 112 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1983 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 1983 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1983 Jaguar XJS (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1983 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Jaguar XJS | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJS | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3590 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2470 mm |
