1985 Jaguar XJS vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 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 (225 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 399 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1985 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Jaguar XJS | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJS | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3590 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
