1987 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Jaguar XK8
To start off, 2008 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Probe would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jaguar XK8 (301 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1987 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Jaguar XK8 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 2008 Jaguar XK8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Ford Probe, 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, 2008 Jaguar XK8 (411 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe. 2008 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Probe | 2008 Jaguar XK8 | |
| Make | Ford | Jaguar |
| Model | Probe | XK8 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 411 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2590 mm |
