1988 Jaguar XJS vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Jaguar XJS (225 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 552 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1988 Jaguar XJS (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1988 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Jaguar XJS | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mazda |
| Model | XJS | 323 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3590 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
