1985 Jaguar XJS vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 28 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 28 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 250 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1985 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Jaguar XJS 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
Make Jaguar Volkswagen
Model XJS Beetle
Year Released 1985 2013
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3590 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 225 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 325 Nm 281 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1700 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1630 kg 1380 kg
Vehicle Length 4880 mm 4277 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1808 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1486 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2537 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 55 L