1985 Jaguar XJS vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Jaguar XJS (217 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 470 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1985 Jaguar XJS (331 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1985 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Jaguar XJS | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
Model | XJS | Golf |
Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3590 cc | 1391 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 331 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |