1986 Jaguar XJS vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Jaguar XJS (217 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 338 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Jaguar XJS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1986 Jaguar XJS (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1986 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Jaguar XJS | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJS | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3590 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
