1988 Jaguar XJS vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 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 5,343 cc (12 cylinders), 1988 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Jaguar XJS (291 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 (440 Nm) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 1988 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Jaguar XJS | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJS | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5343 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |
