1985 Jaguar XJS vs. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1985 Jaguar XJS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 5,343 cc (12 cylinders), 1985 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Jaguar XJS (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 916 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Jaguar XJS | 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJS | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5343 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1780 kg | 864 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
